Investments made by the Tanzanian government at Mtwara Port are proving to be highly successful, significantly increasing the port's handling capacity and transforming it into a key player in regional maritime trade. The government's strategic efforts include the construction of a new berth, procurement of modern equipment, and active participation in the Mtwara Corridor Development Project.
Mtwara Port Manager, Mr. Ferdinand Nyathi, revealed that the government invested approximately Sh157.8 billion in a new 300-meter-long berth capable of accommodating ships up to 230 meters in length, with a water depth of 13 meters. The new berth has a handling capacity of bulk carriers up to 650,000 deadweight tonnes (DWT) and features a spacious yard capable of storing up to 8,600 twenty-foot containers annually.
During the 2022/23 fiscal year, Mtwara Port handled 1.629 million metric tonnes of cargo, nearly 15 times more than the 106,170 metric tonnes handled in 2018/19. The ongoing modernization initiatives and favorable prospects for the fiscal year 2023/24, with 1.016 million metric tonnes handled in the first seven months, indicate sustained growth. Major commodities include cement, cashew nuts, and coal shipments.
Mr. Nyathi emphasized that Mtwara Port is now serving destinations beyond the southern part of Tanzania, extending to Zanzibar, Mozambique, Comoro, India, and Vietnam. Furthermore, the upcoming completion of the Sh80.85 billion port at Mbamba Bay on Lake Nyasa, connected to Mtwara via road and rail networks, will strengthen connections with Malawi and Zambia.
Dr. George Fasha, the Director of Marketing and Public Relations at the Tanzania Port Authority (TPA), stated that Mtwara Port remains a strategic gateway for Tanzania. Plans include increasing the number of berths from two to six in the near future. The port's future prospects are tied to handling graphite from Ruangwa in Lindi and serving markets in neighboring countries.
The success story at Mtwara Port reflects the government's commitment to enhancing regional trade and connectivity, positioning Tanzania as a key player in the maritime landscape.