RUVUMA: TANZANIA, together with neighbouring Malawi and Mozambique, is expected to benefit significantly from increased economic activities following the ongoing construction of the modern Mbamba Bay Port in Nyasa District, Ruvuma Region.
The 80bn/-plus project is expected to transform maritime transport, regional trade, tourism, fishing and investment opportunities while strengthening Tanzania’s position as an important economic gateway in Southern Africa.
The development of the port comes at a time when Tanzania continues to expand strategic infrastructure aimed at improving connectivity, increasing trade efficiency and creating new opportunities for communities.
Once completed, Mbamba Bay Port is expected to open new commercial links across Lake Nyasa and strengthen economic relations with neighbouring countries.
During a recent inspection visit to the project site, Minister for Transport Prof Makame Mbarawa expressed satisfaction with the progress made and highlighted the economic opportunities expected from the investment.
Addressing Nyasa District residents after inspecting the construction works, Prof Mbarawa said the project, being implemented by the Sixth Phase Government under President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan, represents a major step towards improving transport infrastructure and expanding economic opportunities.
He said construction of Mbamba Bay Port has reached 60 per cent completion and that the facility will position Tanzania as a key regional transport and trade hub.
“The port will strengthen maritime transport, promote regional trade, attract investors and create opportunities in tourism and fishing,” Prof Mbarawa said.
According to the minister, the completed facility will have the capacity to accommodate two vessels at the same time, handle up to five tonnes of cargo, serve 400 passengers simultaneously and include a modern warehouse for cargo storage.
He directed the Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA) to closely supervise the project to ensure it is completed on time, meets required quality standards and provides value for the funds invested.
Prof Mbarawa also revealed that the government has allocated Sh4.4 billion for compensation to more than 200 residents who provided land for the construction of the port.
He thanked Nyasa residents for their cooperation and willingness to support the project, saying their contribution reflects commitment towards national development.
The minister said the completion of Mbamba Bay Port will simplify trade, attract investment, create employment opportunities for young people and expand economic activities for both citizens and the government.
He added that the project would transform Nyasa District into a major commercial centre around Lake Nyasa by connecting Tanzania with wider regional markets.
Prof Mbarawa also commended Nyasa Member of Parliament John Nchimbi for his continued efforts in advocating for development projects and representing the interests of residents in Parliament.
He said the legislator’s involvement, particularly in following up on infrastructure projects, has contributed to faster implementation of initiatives aimed at improving people’s lives.
The minister urged Nyasa residents to continue supporting the project to ensure its successful completion, noting that the benefits would extend to current and future generations.
Among the expected developments linked to the port is the introduction of MV Njombe vessel services, which will transport coal to Malawi.
The project also involves improving road infrastructure to strengthen connections, increase trade flows and open access to larger markets.
ALSO READ: BoT gold reserves lift assets, economic stability
Prof Mbarawa said the government would continue investing in transport and other development sectors to support economic growth.
“Let us maintain peace, work hard and protect our environment so that our country can continue progressing. In the coming years, Mbamba Bay will become a major commercial centre in this region,” he said.
He also thanked President Samia Suluhu Hassan for supporting the expansion of port infrastructure and other strategic projects across the country.
Ruvuma Regional Commissioner Brigadier General Ahmed Abbas Ahmed praised Prof Mbarawa for his commitment and leadership in overseeing development initiatives.
He said the region was proud to have Prof Mbarawa as its patron and expressed hope that he would continue visiting and monitoring various projects, including those in water, construction, agriculture and fishing.
Nyasa District Commissioner Peresi Magiri also praised President Samia Suluhu Hassan for supporting the implementation of the Mbamba Bay Port project.
She said the investment of more than Sh80 billion would significantly transform Nyasa’s economy, benefit neighbouring countries and improve the livelihoods of local residents.
Magiri called on citizens to protect the infrastructure being developed, warning against vandalism and theft during project implementation.
She stressed that the main beneficiaries of the port would be the people of Nyasa and urged them to safeguard the investment for future generations.
CCM Nyasa District Chairman Comrade Abeli Komba said the party would continue cooperating with the government in supporting development projects.
He thanked President Samia Suluhu Hassan for bringing various development initiatives to the district, particularly the Mbamba Bay Port project.
He also praised the Ruvuma Regional Commissioner for effectively supervising development programmes in the region. Residents of Nyasa have welcomed the project, describing it as a major economic opportunity for the district and surrounding areas.
Mbamba Bay resident Moses Ngonyani said the completed port would create employment opportunities for young people, improve transportation of goods and increase the value of agricultural products produced in the area. He said the project would also make it easier for businesses to access markets in Malawi and Mozambique.
“We thank the government under President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan for bringing this major project to us. For many years, we hoped to see Nyasa achieve greater economic growth. We believe this port will attract businesses, visitors, create jobs for young people and increase residents’ incomes,” Ngonyani said.
The Mbamba Bay Port project represents more than an infrastructure investment. It reflects Tanzania’s broader ambition to strengthen regional integration, improve economic connectivity and create sustainable opportunities for communities.
With its strategic location on Lake Nyasa, the port is expected to become a vital link between Tanzania and neighbouring countries while supporting trade, investment and development across Southern Africa.