The Lower Msimbazi Upgrading Project (LMUP) is a crucial initiative aimed at improving the resilience of the city centre of Dar es Salaam. The focus of the project is on the lower Msimbazi river and its tributaries which are prone to severe flooding that poses a threat to livelihoods, properties and critical infrastructure. The consortium was hired to conduct Feasibility Studies and prepare preliminary and detailed designs with cost estimates.

The feasibility study served as the basis for securing investment financing. The Spatial Framework was developed as a central tool while working with a multidisciplinary team on the variety of tasks and subjects. It spans 200 hectares, including the river and tributaries, floodplains, urban agriculture, public park, sand depots and mangroves. Preliminary designs were made for embankment protections, resilient transport infrastructure, urban greening and nature revitalization and the City Park. The public park is divided in high and low activity zones and connected by a Non-Motorized Transport network. An urban plan was also set up, including diverse neighborhoods with a mix of affordable, social, mid-end and high-end housing.

The detailed designs focus on the park’s structural elements, such as the path systems, drainage systems and vegetation layers. The vegetation plan includes ca. 100 different species of trees, carefully chosen to match the specific characteristics of the site. The urban agriculture terrace will provide ideal conditions for farmers with establish coconut trees, fruit trees and water bodies to increase water security. The Non-Motorized Transport network will connect the surrounding neighborhoods to the park, accessible for pedestrians, disabled individuals and cyclists. The boulevard, between new neighborhoods and the City Park will offer a versatile space for walking, biking, running, relaxing and gathering with beautiful views over the Msimbazi basin. Reference designs were made for various park facilities, including kiosks, washrooms, sport and play fields, promoting physical and mental health and serving as gathering places for the community. The festival terrain remains a central destination that can accommodate thousands of visitors and is accessible by bus and green car-parking space.