The Tanzanian government is investing in maritime technology and skills development to create more jobs and improve safety and efficiency in the sector. Deputy Minister for Transport, David Kihenzile, said that rapid technological changes in the global maritime industry require Tanzania to build a skilled workforce capable of operating modern systems. He made these remarks during the national climax of the 2026 World Maritime Day celebrations in Tanga.
The government is investing in port development, maritime safety, and shipbuilding capacity, including vessels for search and rescue operations. Mr. Kihenzile directed authorities to ensure that all registered vessels comply with international safety standards to reduce accidents and protect lives and property. He also called for stronger collaboration with the private sector to improve the industry's resilience against weather-related disruptions and other operational challenges.
The Tanzania Shipping Agencies Corporation (TASAC) has reported a sharp rise in the number of certified seafarers, signalling growing capacity in the country's maritime workforce. TASAC Director General, Mohamed Salum, said the corporation issued 15,948 seafarers' certificates by March this year, up from 10,270 during the corresponding period of the 2024/25 financial year, representing a 55.29 per cent increase.
Of the certificates issued, 15,353 were Certificates of Proficiency (COP), 501 were Continuous Discharge Certificates (CDC), while 94 were Certificates of Competency (COC) for ship officers. Mr. Salum said professional certification goes beyond documentation, describing it as a gateway to employment opportunities in both domestic and international maritime labour markets.
Tanzania has continued translating maritime policies into practical action through improvements in port infrastructure, expansion of passenger and cargo berths, increased private-sector participation, and implementation of international maritime conventions. According to Mr. Salum, the reforms have contributed to higher cargo volumes and the arrival of larger vessels at Tanzanian ports.
TASAC has also strengthened the country's emergency response capacity through the completion of a regional Search and Rescue Coordination Centre in Mwanza. The centre receives emergency information, identifies incident locations, directs the nearest rescue vessel to the scene, and provides weather alerts and coordinates rescue operations with neighbouring countries. The corporation plans to acquire more rescue boats and specialised Oil Spill Response and Anti-Pollution Vessels to strengthen the country's ability to respond quickly to marine pollution incidents.
Key points
- The Tanzanian government is investing in maritime technology and skills development to create more jobs and improve safety and efficiency in the sector.
- The Tanzania Shipping Agencies Corporation (TASAC) has reported a 55.29 per cent increase in the number of certified seafarers.
- Tanzania's strategic location makes maritime transport vital for regional trade, with the ports of Tanga, Dar es Salaam, and Mtwara serving not only the country but also more than six neighbouring states.
