KATAVI: THE completion of four large cargo ships at Karema Port is seen as a transformative economic opportunity for the residents of Rukwa, Katavi, Kigoma, and other regions bordering Lake Tanganyika, promising to elevate household incomes and drive national growth.
That construction of the ships, which began in April 2025, is set to be completed by July 2026.
To date, the project has reached over 95 per cent completion, with all vessels already in the water undergoing final inspections before they begin official operations.
In October 2023, the Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA) received a request from Gold Voyage Logistics
Limited, a subsidiary of China’s Zijin Mining Group Co. Ltd, to lease space at Karema Port for the construction of the ships.
Speaking over the weekend during the launch of the fourth ship into the water, Karema Port Assistant Manager Anthony Poyo said that once all permits are finalised, the vessels will provide services to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Zambia, Burundi and Tanzania, opening new maritime trade routes.
Mr Poyo noted that the ships are expected to strengthen trade between Tanzania and neighbouring countries, while facilitating the transport of minerals such as lithium, copper, and gold from the Manono area in DRC.
The minerals will move through Karema Port before being shipped via Kalemie, Kigoma, Dar es Salaam and Tanga ports for export.
He also said that farmers will benefit from easier transportation of their produce to regional and international markets, creating jobs for Tanzanians, especially seafarers, as each ship requires at least 15 crew members.
The project will also boost cargo handling, port services and small-scale trade activities surrounding the port.
ALSO READ: New cargo ships to boost trade in Katavi, Kigoma
“The construction of these ships results from the government’s policies to open investment opportunities. It has created an economic gateway for the country and opportunities for young people,” Mr Poyo said.
Mr Poyo added that each ship will be able to carry up to 8,000 tonnes of cargo at a time, a development expected to significantly advance trade and transportation activities.
Deputy Minister for Transport, Mr David Kihenzile, visited the project on May 12, 2025, noting that the ships will benefit Tanzania by using the existing Central Railway (MGR) and Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) infrastructure to transport cargo from Kigoma Port to Dar es Salaam and Tanga.
Mr Kihenzile stressed that the government continues to improve port infrastructure, railways and Kigoma Airport to ensure efficient, safe and reliable transportation for both citizens and investors.
No comments :
Post a Comment