Dispute stalls offloading of Tanzanian coal vessel at Chipoka Port

A dispute between the Ministry of Transport and Public Works and Tamie Investments has stalled the offloading of a Tanzanian-registered vessel carrying coal at Chipoka Port in Salima, Malawi. The vessel, MV Njombe, arrived at Monkey Bay in Mangochi on July 12, 2026, with 1,100 metric tonnes of coal destined for Portland Cement in Balaka. Initially scheduled to offload at Monkey Bay, it was redirected to Chipoka by the Ministry over clearance issues.

The decision to redirect the vessel to Chipoka triggered a legal dispute, with Tamie Investments obtaining a court injunction restraining the government from taking steps to return the vessel. According to the company's lawyer, Khwima Mchizi, the dispute arose after the government argued that the vessel was operating without the required authorisation. The company obtained the injunction to prevent the government from implementing measures that could have economic consequences for his client.

The legal issues have since been resolved, leaving only operational and technical matters to be addressed before the coal can be offloaded. Attorney General Frank Mbeta assured that the vessel will be allowed to offload its cargo, saying the government will comply with the court order. A letter dated November 6, 2026, from the Attorney General's office advises the Ministry of Transport and Public Works to comply with the law, including court orders.

However, Mbeta neither confirmed nor denied the authenticity of the letter. Ministry of Transport and Public Works spokesperson Chikondi Chimala said Chipoka Port had been non-operational for over two decades, constraining waterborne trade and transportation on Lake Malawi. The port's inactivity has likely contributed to the challenges faced in offloading the vessel's cargo.

The extended stay of the vessel has raised concerns over safety and sanitation. Last Thursday, concerns were raised that prevailing high temperatures could increase the risk of the coal catching fire. The situation has highlighted the need for efficient and safe handling of cargo at Chipoka Port.

The incident has also underscored the importance of clear communication and coordination between government agencies and private companies involved in trade and transportation. The resolution of the legal issues is a positive step towards resolving the situation, and stakeholders will be watching closely to ensure a swift and safe offloading of the coal.

Key issues that led to the dispute have not been fully disclosed, but it is clear that the incident has exposed gaps in Malawi's port operations and regulations.

Key points

• The vessel MV Njombe has been stranded at Chipoka Port for three weeks with 1,100 metric tonnes of coal.
• A court injunction was obtained by Tamie Investments to prevent the government from returning the vessel.
• The Attorney General has assured that the vessel will be allowed to offload its cargo in compliance with the court order.