TPA: New Mbamba Bay Port to create jobs, boost economy
RUVUMA: THE Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA) has announced that the construction of a new, modern port at Mbamba Bay valued at 75.8bn/- is a strategic initiative poised to deliver significant benefits to the nation, including jobs’ creation and economic growth.
During a site inspection by Minister for Transport, Professor Makame Mbarawa in Nyasa District, Ruvuma Region, TPA Deputy Director Juma Kijavara emphasised that one of the main advantages of the port’s construction is ready employment opportunities to the youth, particularly to the locals.
This, he noted, will stimulate economic development for families and the district as a whole. Mr Kijavara also highlighted the increase in business opportunities for local residents through services provided to contractors and project workers.
“This will enhance income for small and medium-sized traders during the two-year implementation of this project,” he said.
Furthermore, the construction of supporting infrastructure, such as roads, water supply, and electricity, will greatly benefit the local community.
In his remarks to the Minister, Kijavara pointed out that the port will boost the economies of Tanzania and neighbouring countries like Malawi, Mozambique, and Zambia, encouraging increased investment in the private and public sectors, particularly in manufacturing, transportation, commerce, and tourism around Lake Nyasa.
Minister Mbarawa praised the TPA for its effective execution of this significant project.
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“This modern port will reduce transportation costs for various industrial products, especially minerals, agricultural goods, and fish. Its capacity to accommodate larger vessels will lead to lower shipping costs and more affordable prices for citizens,” he stated.
He added, “Recently, we launched another major project for constructing large oil storage tanks at the Dar es Salaam port. Now, we are initiating this strategic port project to enhance accessibility and create diverse opportunities, including jobs for Tanzanians.”
Mbarawa commended TPA for successfully implementing various government projects under President Samia Suluhu Hassan aimed at boosting the economy and generating business opportunities for citizens.
The construction will involve building two berths, each 103 meters long, capable of servicing large vessels, unlike the current port, which only accommodates smaller boats.
The project will also include warehouses, staff housing, an administration building, a passenger terminal, a workshop, a water tank tower, a health service facility, a 105-metre-long bridge for cargo transport vehicles, a storage area for 3,000 cargo containers, and roads for vehicle access.
