Tanzania's efforts to strengthen its position as a gateway to Southern Africa are gaining momentum with the construction of the modern Mbamba Bay Port in Nyasa District, Ruvuma Region, reaching 78 per cent completion. The port, being built at a cost of over 75bn/-, is expected to transform maritime transport across Lake Nyasa and increase trade with neighbouring countries. Scheduled for completion on February 26, 2027, the project is already creating jobs and stimulating small businesses in surrounding communities.
The Mbamba Bay Port project is designed to establish the area as a key commercial link within the Lake Nyasa basin. Once operational, the port will facilitate the movement of agricultural produce, minerals, fish, and manufactured goods, while improving regional connectivity and reducing transport costs. The port will feature a 115-metre-long and 20-metre-wide quay capable of accommodating two vessels, each with a capacity of 5,000 tonnes, simultaneously.
The port will also have a 20,000-square-metre cargo yard with capacity for 4,000 containers, warehouses covering 2,000 square metres, an administrative building, and a passenger terminal accommodating 400 people. Other facilities include a concrete access road linking the port to the main highway. The quay has been designed to enable vessels to berth throughout the year despite fluctuations in Lake Nyasa's water levels.
According to Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA) Project Supervising Engineer John Paul, the project is expected to strengthen the Mtwara Corridor by improving connectivity between Mtwara Port, Songea, and Mbamba Bay, facilitating trade with neighbouring countries. He attributed the progress to government support and timely funding, which had enabled construction to proceed.
The project is already having a positive impact on the local community, with workers and traders describing how it has improved their livelihoods and provided them with new skills. Cosmas John, a native of Tukuyu in Mbeya Region, said employment at the project had enabled him to support his family while learning metal welding and operating machinery.
Small businesses around the construction site are also benefiting from the project. Yosepha Mbunda, a food vendor, said her business had improved since construction began, with expectations of further growth once the port became operational. Janeth Mapunda, who sells fried fish, also reported improved business and urged the government to ensure timely completion so traders could benefit from emerging opportunities.
Resident Engineer Agathon Mwenda, of Anova Company, said construction was progressing well, with the team committed to meeting the contractual deadline. With the project's completion expected to boost trade and regional connectivity, stakeholders are eagerly awaiting its operationalization.
Key points
- The Mbamba Bay Port project is expected to be completed on February 26, 2027.
- The port will have a 115-metre-long and 20-metre-wide quay capable of accommodating two vessels, each with a capacity of 5,000 tonnes, simultaneously.
- The project is creating jobs, imparting technical skills, and stimulating small businesses in surrounding communities.
