Kibaha District, Pwani

Kibaha is one of nine administrative districts of Pwani Region in Tanzania. The name means 'it is here' in Zaramo.^[1] The district covers an area of 1,502 km² (580 sq mi).^[2] Kibaha is bordered to the northeast by Kibaha Urban District and the north by Chalinze District. The district is bordered to the southeast by the Kisarawe District, On the western side the district is bordered by Morogoro District of Morogoro Region. The district seat (capital) is the town and ward of Mlandizi. According to the 2022 census, the district has a total population of 123,367.^[3]

Bridge over Ruvu, Mlandizi Ward

Kibaha Ward Wilaya ya Kibaha (Swahili)
District
Mlandizi Landscape, Kibaha District
Nickname:  It is here
Kibaha District in Pwani
Coordinates: 6°49′22″S 38°36′46″E
Country	Tanzania
Region	Pwani Region
Capital	Mlandizi
Wards	Wards Bokomnemela Dutumi Gwata Janga Kawawa Kikongo Kilangalanga Kwala Magindu Mlandizi Mtambani Mtongani Ruvu Soga
Area
• Total	1,502 km2 (580 sq mi)
• Rank	7/9 in Pwani Region
Population  (2022)
• Total	123,367
• Density	82/km2 (210/sq mi)
Demonym	Kibahan
Ethnic groups
• Settler	Swahili
• Native	Zaramo
Website	https://kibahadc.go.tz/

Population

According to the 2022 census, Kibaha District has a population of 123,367, with a fairly balanced gender distribution of 61,220 males and 62,147 females. The age distribution indicates a young population, with a significant number of residents under 15 years old.^[3]

Administrative subdivisions

Kibaha District is administratively divided into 14 wards.

1. Bokomnemela
2. Dutumi
3. Gwata
4. Janga
5. Kawawa
6. Kikongo
7. Kilangalanga
8. Kwala
9. Magindu
10. Mlandizi
11. Mtambani
12. Mtongani
13. Ruvu
14. Soga

Economy

The economy in Kibaha experienced significant growth, largely driven by the development of the Kwala Satellite City. This US$ 3 billion project, expected to be completed in 2024, is set to house over 200 industries producing food products, pharmaceuticals, industrial and transport material.^[4]

Transport

Transport infrastructure in Kibaha district is also undergoing major improvements. The construction of Tanzania's first toll expressway, a 215-kilometer road from Kibaha to Morogoro, is set to be completed in 2024. This four-lane expressway will facilitate faster travel and reduce congestion on the current highway, enhancing connectivity within the region and supporting economic activities.^[5]

Kibaha also has multiple stops for both the old Central Line railway and the newer electric train.

Natural Features

The Ruvu River is a notable geographical feature within the district. The Bagala Forest Reserve is a significant natural reserve in the area.

Education & Health

As of 2022, there were 8 secondary schools.^[6] In terms of healthcare facilities, as of 2022, Kibaha district is home to 3 health centers and 24 dispensaries.^[7]