Infrastructure for People and Nature: A Success Story from the Serengeti
Inspection of buildings (Classrooms & office) executed by the contractor DF MISTRY in Serengeti District
Inspection of Dining/ Assembly Hall under construction by the contractor OSAKA in Ngorongoro District
History & Migration Hall under construction at Serengeti Visitor Centre at Seronera by contractor KAVUTA
KFW’s Engineer Yannick Scheid (Sector Coordinator Civil Engineering) expressing a point to CDM Smith, TANAPA and FZS staff during a field inspection visits in Serengeti District
A team from TANAPA, CDM Smith, FZS and KfW inspecting the contractor’s camp during the start of the construction of Serengeti Visitor Centre
Outstanding infrastructure
The project pursued an integrated approach: on the one hand, it aimed to preserve the biodiversity in and around Serengeti National Park; on the other, it sought to improve the social and economic livelihoods of the local population. This was achieved through targeted investments in public infrastructure – particularly in the sectors of transportation, water, education, and healthcare.
In total, 77 kilometres of rural roads were upgraded to significantly improve access to markets, schools, and medical facilities. In addition, 57 new education and healthcare facilities were constructed, including medical stations, teachers’ housing, classrooms, and a girls’ dormitory. To ensure sustainable water supply, eight charco dams are currently under construction. Furthermore, a new visitor centre is being built in Serengeti National Park, which will serve as an educational and meeting place for both tourists and local communities.
Lasting Impact
As the implementation partner, CDM Smith was responsible for the planning, tendering, construction supervision, and financial management of all measures. A particular focus was also placed on strengthening local capacities. We developed and delivered tailored training programmes for local authorities, engineering teams, and contractors – covering topics such as FIDIC contract management, environmental, health and safety standards (ESHS), as well as procurement and financial processes.
The SEDCP demonstrates how infrastructure projects can have a lasting impact when they are strategically planned, professionally executed, and locally anchored. The project contributes to 10 of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) – including education, health, gender equality, infrastructure, water, and climate action.
We are proud to strengthen local communities, improve infrastructure and promote the sustainable development of the region through this project.
About CDM Smith
CDM Smith is a privately owned engineering and construction firm providing legendary client service and smart solutions in water, environment, transportation, energy and facilities. Passionate about our work and invested in each other, we are inspired to think and driven to solve the world's environmental and infrastructure challenges.