Corruption, construction industry and gravel roads in Tanzania

Abstract

This paper discusses corruption in the construction industry to delineate its effects on gravel roads, drawing from Tanzanian experiences. To attain this aim, the paper analyses the following aspects: cooperation between legal entities providing services to the community and the road authorities managing road networks during execution of road works; selection of subcontractors by the main contractor, and the relationship between materials, laboratory personnel responsible for checking the quality and quantity of road works and the contractor, client and consultant; the relationship between client representatives, contractors and project engineer; and, the relationship between contractors and their employees in terms of salary, accommodation and working conditions. As a result of these relationships, gravel roads are affected negatively in terms of their quality. The paper argues that corruption in the Tanzanian construction industry is condoned by government ministry officials who are responsible for overseeing the performance of respective agencies. The paper recommends several measures that could be adopted to curb the corruption in Tanzania's construction industry.