This archive report was first published on 24 October 2019.
On October 24, 2019, Tanzania's Dar es Salaam region took a bold step in addressing slow progress in state-funded construction projects. The authorities arrested four Chinese contractors, employed by two companies contracted to build a canal and a section of road in Dar es Salaam.
According to Abubakar Kunenge, the executive secretary of the Dar es Salaam region, the governor, Paul Makonda, ordered the arrest of these business people to serve as an example to others.
"The governor wants it to serve as an example to others," Kunenge said.
The four contractors will spend each night at the central police station and go every morning to supervise the works until Makonda decides the speed of work is sufficient.
President John Magufuli's government has been known for taking summary measures against foreign companies it considers unfair, including breaking or renegotiating contracts, cracking down on certain groups, and limiting media and opposition freedoms.
