DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIA’s ongoing efforts to develop and modernise its transport infrastructure are playing a crucial role in boosting regional trade.
Making the revelation during the launch of Foton vehicles in Dar es Salaam over the weekend, Deputy Minister for Transport, David Kihenzile, highlighted the country’s strategic initiatives, which include significant upgrades to maritime transport services across Lakes Victoria, Tanganyika and Nyasa.
He further said that Tanzania has a big role to play as a gateway for over eight land-linked countries.
This is made possible through key transport corridors such as the TANZAM Corridor, Central Corridor, Mtwara Corridor and the Northern (Tanga) Corridor.
Mr Kihenzile noted that improvements at the Port of Dar es Salaam have significantly expanded its capacity to handle up to 28 million tonnes of cargo annually.
One of the key milestones in this effort is the completion of the Dar es Salaam Maritime Gateway Project (DMGP), which includes the construction of a new Ro-Ro berth to modernise the port.
Additional improvements include the construction of 15 new fuel storage tanks, which are currently in the mobilisation and design stages.
These developments are expected to greatly increase fuel handling and storage capacity at the port.
The Deputy Minister also discussed progress at Tanga Port, where modernisation efforts have boosted its cargo-handling capacity to 700,000 metric tonnes annually, up from 200,000 metric tonnes.
At Mtwara Port, Tanzania’s southern corridor has seen significant upgrades, including a natural depth of over 15 metres, enabling it to accommodate larger vessels.
Furthermore, the construction of the new Bagamoyo Port is underway. Once completed, this port will relieve pressure on Dar es Salaam Port, addressing the growing demands of both regional and international trade.
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He stressed that expanding cargo-handling capacity and accommodating larger vessels will require a corresponding increase in high-capacity trucks for efficient delivery.
“Road transport plays a critical role in ensuring timely and effective deliveries,” he noted.
The government is also focused on improving the business environment for stakeholders like Mobimotors, who are seizing opportunities in the transport sector.
“I wish to inform our truck operators that the government has listened to their feedback and is in the final stages of amending the Transport Licensing (Goods Carrying Vehicles) Regulations G.N. 77 of 2020,” Kihenzile added.
Foton Africa’s Vice President, Mr Roger Luo, shared that the company has partnered with Mobimotors under Mobikey to supply vehicles.
Mr Hanif Salambha, Head of Sales at Mobimotors in Tanzania, highlighted that the newly launched vehicles are equipped with Cummins engines and ZF transmission technology, ensuring advancements in safety, reliability, fuel efficiency and comfort.
