TPA in Lake Zone handles 80,999 tonnes

MWANZA: THE Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA) in the Lake Zone has handled 80,999 tonnes of cargo in the first quarter, out of a planned total of 335,096 tonnes for this financial year.

During the customer care week, Acting Lake Zone Ports Manager Mr Francisco Mwanga noted that last year, the port managed 236,274 tonnes out of a targeted 310,000 tonnes.

“The target was not met due to major rehabilitations of three cargo ships on Lake Victoria namely MV Umoja, MV Kaawa and MV Pamba,” he explained.

He added that these cargo vessels are now back in operation, and cargo volumes are expected to increase further with the ongoing major expansions and construction of Mwanza North, Bukoba and Kemondo ports.

This enhanced trade capacity is a result of better logistics services, reducing costs and transit times for goods, which is critical for maintaining competitiveness in the global market.

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Moreover, he said the increased cargo handling results from substantial investments in port infrastructure and related logistics facilities, which play a critical role in enhancing transportation networks, including roads and railways.

“These improvements not only facilitate smoother operations within the ports but also optimize the overall supply chain, enabling faster and more efficient movement of goods to and from market destinations,” he said.

Mr Mwanga noted further that the Mwanza North expansion project is currently at 40 per cent completion, with Kemondo at 75 per cent and Bukoba at 73 per cent.

All three projects have a combined cost of approximately 60bn/- funded by the central government.

Implementation began in May last year and the projects are set to be completed within 18 months. Mwanza North Port Project Engineer, Mr Abraham Msina stated that it includes an expansion of the berth from 82 to 115 meters, along with the construction of a new passenger lounge designed to serve at least 700 people, an increase from the current capacity of 350.

The new facilities will also incorporate infrastructure for individuals with special needs. The expanded berth will accommodate larger ships, including the MV Mwanza Hapa Kazi Tu, currently under construction.

Additionally, there will be space for two more vessels measuring 25 and 60 metres in length.

Other project components include port fencing, hard floor construction, and the installation of inspection systems for cargo and passengers.

During the Customer Care Week event, Mr Zuberi Vedastus, a person with disabilities, commended the initiative to incorporate special infrastructure for individuals with disabilities, stating that it represents a vital step in promoting human rights.

He urged the government and private port operators to implement similar accommodations on marine vessels, noting that many, including the MV Butiama on the Mwanza-Ukerewe route, currently lack the necessary facilities for individuals with disabilities.

Ukerewe Legislator Mr Joseph Mkundi emphasised the need for TPA to conduct comprehensive research on how private ports set their prices, particularly for cargo.

He observed that private port rates tend to be lower and stressed the importance of understanding the reasons behind this pricing gap.

However, he acknowledged that the TPA excels in managing security at the ports compared to private operators.