Evaluation and Prioritization of Strategies for Enhancing Gravel Roads Maintenance Practices in Tanzania

Abstract

Gravel roads maintenance (GRM) is essential for the national economy of developing countries like Tanzania, where over 75% of the road network remains unpaved. Hence, the objective of this paper is to explore management strategies and their effects on the performance of gravel roads maintenance projects in Tanzania using appropriate standard methods utilizing 385 questionnaires administered to professionals. The study revealed five key GRM strategies that are essential for the effective maintenance of gravel roads: These were off-prism strategy, risk management strategy, maintenance fund strategy, delivery and procurement strategy and construction materials strategy. Using the Pareto principle, the two most highly ranked strategies (off-prism and risk management strategy with mean value of 1.85 and 1.82 respectively) were identified as critical areas of focus. An implementation matrix has been proposed to provide clear maintenance guidance. The identified GRM strategies are recommended for implementation to enhance the efficiency of GRM projects in Tanzania, accounting for 53.5% of the variance. By focusing on the off-prism, risk management strategies and delivery and procurement strategy, significant improvements in road maintenance can be achieved, benefiting Tanzanian’s road infrastructure and economy.