Seizing the Moment: Real Estate Possibilities Along the New SGR Line, Tanzania

Recently, while comfortably seated on the SGR train from Dar es Salaam to Dodoma, passing through the stunning Pugu Hills, I found myself reflecting on the enormous opportunities this new railway line has opened up. As an architect passionate about real estate, I was not just enjoying the ride and appreciating how far we have come as a nation; I was envisioning the possibilities this new infrastructure offers to the industry.

The Pugu Hills, just a short 15-minute train ride from the city, have always been there, but now they are more accessible than ever. What if, instead of just passing by, we started seeing these hills as the perfect spot for future homes? The fresh air, serene environment, and close proximity to Dar es Salaam make it ideal for those looking to escape the city's chaos, yet remain within easy reach for work. I can already picture homes nestled into the hillside, with families waking up to the sound of birds instead of traffic. It is all about vision and timing—if we do not act now, someone else will.

As I continued on my journey, I also started thinking about Dodoma, our capital city and an emerging real estate hotspot. With the government’s recent relocation of headquarters from Dar es Salaam, Dodoma has seen a surge in demand for residential housing, hotels, and office space. The growing expat community is another driving factor behind this increased demand. What’s more, people are no longer just looking for simple homes—they want modern properties equipped with swimming pools, gyms, and gardens. For investors, the city offers incredible potential, from housing estates to office buildings and even shopping malls. Dodoma’s transformation is only beginning, and those who are stepping in early will undoubtedly reap the rewards. As rental prices in prime areas continue to rise, there is a clear opportunity to develop the kind of modern, high-quality properties that are in demand.

I also started thinking about Morogoro, sitting quietly at the base of the Uluguru Mountains. For years, it has been known for its agriculture and as a stopover on the way to Dar es Salaam or Dodoma, but what if it could be more? With the SGR, it is now easier than ever to hop on a train and escape the busy city for a weekend retreat. Imagine Morogoro filled with cozy lodges, charming guesthouses, and eco-friendly cabins where people can spend their weekends hiking the Uluguru Mountains or simply relaxing in nature. What if this quiet town became Tanzania’s next hotspot for tourism, adventure, and leisure?

The SGR is not just a faster train; it is a gateway to unlocking new areas of opportunity. We have seen this happen in other parts of Africa, too. In Kenya, the SGR from Mombasa to Nairobi is already sparking a real estate boom in towns that were once considered too far out, like Athi River. These areas are now thriving commuter hubs because people are taking the risk early, and they will surely reap the rewards. The same can happen here, right in front of us. The question is: will we be part of it?

A quote from the former Regional Commissioner of Tabora comes to mind and fits this moment perfectly: “Unasema SGR, SGR, umelima matikiti?” It is a reminder that while we may talk about the SGR all day, the real question is—what are we doing to capitalize on it? The time for talking is long gone—now is the time for action. We need to stop waiting for things to happen and start creating opportunities for ourselves.

I must also applaud the incredible work being done by our government under the leadership of Her Excellency Samia Suluhu Hassan. Her administration’s focus on infrastructure development, including the SGR, is laying the foundation for new economic opportunities. The SGR is a game-changer, and it is up to us to take advantage of it. The train line is not just connecting cities; it is connecting us to new possibilities.

?

As an architect whenever I board, I cannot stop to be impressed by the architectural marvels of the Dar es Salaam and Dodoma SGR stations. The Dar es Salaam SGR station, named after the late President John Magufuli, is a state-of-the-art design—a modern architectural masterpiece inspired by the unique tanzanite gemstone found only in Tanzania. This blend of contemporary design stands as a symbol of the country’s progress. Likewise, the Dodoma SGR station, named after Her Excellency President Samia Suluhu Hassan, is another architectural wonder. Its design is inspired by the surrounding mountains of Dodoma, with textures and color themes that connect us to both tradition and nature. These stations are more than transport hubs—they are statements of our nation’s ambition and growth.

As I sit here, I realize that the future is not something we wait for—it’s something we build. The Pugu Hills, Morogoro, Dodoma, and all the areas along the SGR route are waiting for those with the vision and courage to invest early. So, will we be the ones who see the opportunity and act on it, or will we let it pass us by?

The choice is ours, but the time is now.