Comoros' Transport Minister, Hassane Alfeine Yasmine, who is also serving as interim head of state, conducted a site visit to the port of Mutsamudu on September 23. She was accompanied by the Minister for Gender. The visit aimed to assess ongoing rehabilitation projects, including a paving worksite and the condition of the small quay. The minister's delegation observed the progress of the projects and discussed concerns with officials.
The port of Mutsamudu faces unique challenges due to its location, with a river flowing directly into the port. According to Kassim Ibrahim Elarif, director of cabinet for the Minister of Transport, this configuration necessitates regular dredging operations. A project to build a second retention basin is underway to complement the existing one, which is insufficient to handle sedimentation. The minister's visit focused on evaluating the effectiveness of these projects.
The condition of the small quay was a major concern during the visit. Kassim Ibrahim Elarif stated that the quay's degradation poses a risk to passenger safety, as it is a critical passage point for national and international travelers. The minister's delegation inspected the site and discussed potential solutions with officials. The visit highlighted the need for urgent rehabilitation to ensure safe and efficient operations.
A major paving project is underway at the port, covering approximately 6,000 square meters with a 20-centimeter thickness. The works aim to improve circulation and exploitation conditions at the site. Mounib Mohamed Elhad, director-general of the Anjouan Stevedoring Company (Asc), noted that the project follows previous dredging operations. However, he cited constraints such as fuel and material shortages, including sand, as factors slowing progress.
Mounib Mohamed Elhad emphasized the importance of the paving project in reducing dust on the site. The area is currently "invivable" due to dust, and the works aim to create a safer and healthier environment. He expressed satisfaction with the minister's visit, seeing it as a motivation to continue the project. The government's support and oversight are crucial to the project's success.
Ahamed Mahadali, director of the Mutsamudu port, welcomed the minister's visit as an opportunity to directly assess the challenges faced on the ground. He called for accelerated rehabilitation works to address the pressing needs of the port. The visit demonstrated the government's commitment to improving the port's infrastructure and operations.
The Comoros government is investing in the rehabilitation of the Mutsamudu port to enhance its capacity and efficiency. The ongoing projects aim to address critical issues such as sedimentation, safety, and working conditions. The minister's visit highlighted the importance of these initiatives and the need for continued support and investment in the port's development.
Key points
- Comoros' Transport Minister Hassane Alfeine Yasmine inspects port rehabilitation projects in Mutsamudu.
- The port of Mutsamudu faces unique challenges due to its location, requiring regular dredging operations.
- The government is investing in rehabilitation projects to improve the port's infrastructure and operations.
