Lagosa Port construction reaches 96 per cent
KIGOMA: CONSTRUCTION of Lagosa Port project in Uvinza District, Kigoma Region has so far reached 96 per cent and is expected to be completed by April 2024.
Minister for Transport, Professor Makame Mbarawa made the statement on Monday, shortly after inspecting the project.
He said upon its completion, the port will significantly boost economic activities to residents near Lake Tanganyika especially in transportation of goods and services as well as fishing, agro production and trade sectors.
“The project will enable Tanzanians in the region to tap into emerging opportunities from the neighbouring countries including the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Burundi and Zambia,” Prof Mbarawa said.
He said the government will keep on constructing ports’ infrastructures and ships to speed up development.
Prof Mbarawa commended the Tanzania Port Authority (TPA) for monitoring the construction progress. He insisted that the project must be completed in time, while strictly observing standard and value for money.
TPA’S Deputy Director General, Eng Juma Kijavara assured the minister that the project will be completed in time.
However, Mr Kijavara said the increase of Lake Tanganyika water levels was among factors that impede smooth execution of the project, noting however, that the contractors has come up with ways to address the challenge.
For her part, Uvinza District Commissioner (DC), Ms Dina Masamani has commended the government for its commitment in pushing for the implementation and completion of the project on time.
The port is located only 88 kilometres from Kalemie Town in DRC, a geographical advantage that positions the Lagosa Port as the business epicentre between Tanzania and DRC.
