Lack of ships between Tanzania, Comoros disrupts trade

COMORO: THE absence of shipping services plying between Tanzania and the Comoros has had a significant impact on trade amid the two nations.

The challenge is exacerbated further by traders’ limited understanding of maritime transportation regulations.

Tanzania’s Ambassador to Comoro, Mr Saidi Yakubu, highlighted recently the need for the shipment and awareness improvement during a diaspora clinic held at the Parliament grounds in Moroni.

“We engaged with TASAC [Tanzania Shipping Agencies Corporation] and other maritime stakeholders and found that major challenges are reliable ship services and regulations,” Amb Yakubu told ‘Daily News.

’ To address this, efforts are underway to improve vessel availability on the Tanzanian side. “We have received assurances from Zanzibar that once MV Mapinduzi is repaired, it will sail between the Comoros and Tanzania,” Yakubu noted.

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Tanzania exported goods worth 148bn/- last year alone to the Comoro islands. The goods shipped are tomatoes, onions, potatoes, eggs, chicken and livestock.

TASAC’s Principal Port Services Officer, Mr John Butoto emphasised the crucial importance of using legally recognised maritime service providers.

“Educating the diaspora on using registered shipping agents helps ensure accountability in case of issues like cargo loss,” Mr Butoto said.

Tanzanian trader Jafari Hashim in the Comoros expressed relief upon learning about TASAC’s efforts. “This information is invaluable. We can now conduct our trade with greater ease and confidence,” he said.