Factor s hindering adoption of labour-based methods in construction and maintenance of rural transport infrastructures in Rukwa region

Labour-based methods in construction and maintenance of rural transport infrastructures trace their roots from ancient times. In Tanzania the structured application by optimizing the use of labour with fair working conditions could be traced to the 1970s. It is thus surprising to note that, despite all its proven benefits including accrued benefits to the community through employment generation and poverty alleviation, the formal recognition and adoption of the labour-based methods in construction and maintenance of rural transport infrastructures is still an issue of debate since it is considered somewhat ‘backward and of the stone age’. Rukwa region is of inadequate rural transport infrastructure which has resulted in severe communication problems. It is one of the regions with shortage of heavy road construction machines. The need for adoption and use of Labour based methods in construction and maintenance of rural and transport infrastructures, is critical. The study made a critical assessment of factors hindering adoption of Labour based methods in construction and maintenance of rural transport infrastructures in Rukwa region. The the study used empirical data, thorough interview and questionnaire survey of key professionals, stakeholders and practitioners in TANROADS, LGAs, MoID, contractors, consultants, regulatory bodies and training institutions. The study revealed several factors that hinder adoption of labour-based methods in rural transport infrastructure works in Rukwa region. Strategies and implementation framework for mainstreaming and up-scaling labour-based technology in the region, have been suggested.