The improvement and expansion of Tanga Port facilities have significantly boosted the region's economic growth, enhanced trade efficiency, and strengthened connectivity.

Over the past year, these advancements have attracted investments in production and distribution systems, supporting the growth of manufacturing and logistics, creating jobs, and increasing income levels.

These developments were highlighted by Tanga's Regional Commissioner, Dr. Batilda Burian, during a meeting with the Parliamentary Committee on Infrastructure, which visited the region to inspect key government projects.

Dr. Burian reported that since the completion of the port's infrastructure expansion, the facility has seen a significant rise in the number of ships, particularly general cargo, bulk, and container vessels, handling both imports and exports.

Tanga Port, which also serves as a transit hub for Zambia, Rwanda, Burundi, and Malawi—primarily for oil consignments and other goods—handled over 307 cargo ships in the 2023/24 fiscal year, including both large and medium-sized vessels.

She further noted that the increase in port activity has led to a sharp rise in the number of shipping agents, clearing and forwarding agents, and other maritime service providers, growing by an impressive 90 percent from 29 to 200.

“This surge in agents is driven by better time management, cost reductions, and operational efficiencies at the port, making it a more attractive business destination,” Dr. Burian stated.

She emphasized that the presence of these maritime stakeholders has resulted in multiple benefits, including an increase in the number of ships using the port, job creation, economic growth, and higher revenue generation in the port sector.

Regarding employment, Dr. Burian highlighted a notable increase in workforce numbers, with permanent employees rising from 222 to 320, while casual laborers grew from 6,000 to 17,000.

"Driven by factors such as higher trade volumes, the use of larger vessels, and evolving global supply chain demands, international port development remains crucial.

“But above all, the visionary investments by our President have yielded remarkable benefits. Tanga Port is now the second most efficient deep-sea port, surpassing Mtwara Port in both performance and revenue generation,” she stated.

Tanga Port’s strategic location has also prompted shipping lines to adjust their routes for greater efficiency, reducing costs and transit times.

Its proximity enhances connectivity between East and Central Africa, making it an increasingly attractive option for shipping lines.

Ally Juma, a representative from a shipping agency, added that Tanga Port is becoming a key transshipment hub.

"This has reshaped shipping routes, as vessels now include an additional stop at this hub, optimizing the distribution of goods across various regions," he explained.

He further noted that the port’s capacity to accommodate larger vessels, expand cargo handling operations, and improve trade efficiency significantly impacts global trade networks and shipping routes.

Focus Sahani, Director of Operations at Tanzania Railway Corporation (TRC), confirmed that steps are underway to ensure trains can access the port seamlessly.

"Currently, the train head can reach the port. The remaining task is to install road points near key areas where wagons can be loaded and offloaded. The government continues to provide funding to acquire modern permanent way materials that will support the port’s cargo volumes," he said.

In his remarks, Parliamentary Committee Chairman Selemani Kakoso stressed the importance of the Ruvu-Tanga-Moshi-Arusha railway line as a crucial economic link connecting Tanga Port to the rest of the region.

"The President directed that the Ruvu-Tanga-Kilimanjaro-Arusha railway section undergo substantial rehabilitation, but its implementation has yet to begin. As a committee, we urge the government to prioritize this project to maximize its economic potential."