In a significant move towards revolutionizing marine transport and fostering economic growth, Zanzibar is set to develop a specialized berth for loading and unloading vehicles, termed 'Ferry and Rolls-on/Rolls-off (Ro-Ro)'. The ambitious project, marked by a pivotal agreement signed through a Public Private Partnership (PPP), was witnessed by President Hussein Mwinyi on Tuesday.
The partnership involves the newly established Zanzibar Ferry Development Company (ZF-DEVCO)-B.V., a consortium comprising Dutch and Tanzanian companies, and Zanzibar’s Ministry of Infrastructure, Communication, and Transport. The signing ceremony took place ahead of the 60th Anniversary celebrations of the Zanzibar Revolution.
President Mwinyi hailed the initiative as a landmark in marine transport within the framework of the blue economy. He emphasized the need for significant reforms and development in transportation systems to achieve social and economic goals, covering road, water, and air travel.
The signing ceremony was attended by executives, ministers, and the Netherlands Ambassador to Tanzania, Mr. Wiebe de Boer, who encouraged Zanzibar to maximize the opportunities presented by the blue economy. He highlighted the growing relations between the Netherlands and Zanzibar, with 15 companies, including KLM, engaged in the tourism and transport industries.
Dr. Khalid Salum Mohamed, Zanzibar's Minister for Infrastructure, Communication, and Transport, underscored the project's potential to enhance services at the current Ferry Terminal, addressing issues like passenger congestion and safety risks. He emphasized the need to upgrade the aging port infrastructure, aligning with President Mwinyi's vision for the Blue Economy.
Zanzibar Port Corporation (ZPC) Director General, Mr. Akif Ali Khamis, highlighted the strategic role of the Zanzibar Ferry development in unlocking the blue economy and serving as a gateway to the island. The partnership with ZF-DEVCO aims to enhance the passenger experience through the construction of a new and modern ferry terminal.
The first phase of the project, estimated to cost USD 250 million, focuses on upgrading existing infrastructure and introducing new terminals to cater to the rising number of passengers, connecting the island to East Africa and beyond. The subsequent phases, with additional investments ranging from USD 100 to 150 million, will include the development of a Special Economic Zone (SEZ), transit hotel, shopping mall, and an Expo Hall for trade exhibitions and conferences.
Directors of ZF-DEVCO Consortium, Mr. Jaffer Machano and Mr. Matthew VanderBorgh, emphasized the project's commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). They highlighted its alignment with global objectives, addressing sustainability issues such as advancing infrastructure, environmentally friendly transportation, inclusive economic growth, and biodiversity preservation.
ZF-DEVCO Consortium expressed its commitment to environmental management by preserving a vital mangrove forest spanning 150 hectares, connecting to the development site at Mpigaduri/Maruhubi. The new ferry terminal, strategically located on Bububu Road to the Unguja north of Stone Town, is expected to take two and a half years to construct.