Tanzania releases TSh20bn to compensate Kipunguni residents for JNIA expansion

The Tanzanian government has released 20 billion shillings to continue compensation payments to residents of Kipunguni whose properties are affected by the expansion of Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam. The latest allocation brings the total amount paid so far to 86 billion shillings out of the 114 billion shillings required to compensate all affected residents.

Tanzania Airports Authority Director General Abdul Mombakaleo said the funds are part of an ongoing phased compensation programme that will continue as additional funds become available. He said the authority received the 20 billion shillings on September 22, 2026 and that payments under the latest phase would begin on Monday.

So far, 717 affected residents have been compensated, while another 1,147 are still awaiting payment. TAA Director of Finance Mohamed Seif said the money would be paid to residents who have completed the required forms and complied with established procedures, with compensation forms distributed through street chairpersons and local government authorities. Beneficiaries will submit the forms to banks for verification before returning them to the authority for processing.

The compensation exercise is part of the planned expansion of Julius Nyerere International Airport, which requires residents in the affected areas to vacate their properties after completing the compensation process. Mombakaleo thanked residents of Kipunguni and other affected areas for their patience. "We will make payments in phases. Everyone will be paid," he said.