TASAC pushes for local shipbuilding investment to boost Tanzania’s Blue Economy goal

MWANZA: IN a landmark move aimed at transforming Tanzania’s maritime sector, the Tanzania Shipping Agencies Corporation (TASAC) has called on private investors and marine industry stakeholders to invest heavily in the construction of ships and other water vessels locally.

The high-level meeting, held in Mwanza, brought together shipbuilders and maritime stakeholders from across the country to explore investment opportunities in the marine transport sector and support the implementation of Tanzania’s National Development Vision 2050.

Speaking during the meeting, TASAC Director of Regulation, Security, Safety and Marine Environmental Protection, Advocate Leticia Mtaki, said the government agency is committed to encouraging local investment in shipbuilding as part of a broader strategy to strengthen Tanzania’s blue economy and reduce dependence on imported vessels.

She noted that building ships locally would not only create jobs and develop technical expertise, but also help the country save millions in foreign exchange currently spent on importing marine vessels from abroad.

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“We want to see Tanzania become a hub for shipbuilding and marine transport innovation in the region. Investing in local vessel construction is key to economic growth, safety, and self-reliance,” she said.

Meanwhile, TASAC Ship Inspection and Registration Manager, Engineer Said

Kaheneko, urged shipbuilders to comply with legal and technical standards by submitting proper vessel designs and drawings before construction begins.

He warned that failure to follow safety regulations could lead to technical defects and marine accidents.

Stakeholders who attended the meeting praised TASAC for creating a platform that opened their eyes to untapped investment opportunities within the maritime industry. They said the discussions highlighted the critical role of the private sector in advancing Tanzania’s blue economy agenda.

The gathering was described as the first of its kind in Tanzania, coming at a crucial time when the maritime transport sector is increasingly seen as a strategic driver of economic growth, particularly in the Lake Victoria Zone.

Experts believe that investing in modern, high-quality vessels will significantly improve safety on Tanzania’s waterways while boosting trade, transportation, and regional connectivity.

The meeting marks a major step toward positioning Tanzania as a competitive maritime nation in East Africa.