IN a bold move aimed at transforming the country’s marine transport sector, the government has rebranded the state-owned Marine Services Company Limited (MSCL) into the newly established Tanzania Shipping Company Limited (TASHICO)—a shift that reflects ambitious plans to position Tanzania as a regional shipping powerhouse.

The transformation marks a significant milestone in efforts to expand the country’s maritime footprint—from inland waterways to international deep-sea routes. With strategic investments in vessels, shipyards, and infrastructure, TASHICO is set to become a critical driver of socio-economic development and regional integration.

The new name—Tanzania Shipping Company Limited—reflects the company’s evolving identity and broader scope of operations. “TASHICO speaks directly to our ambitions,” says Managing Director Eric Hamissi. “It encapsulates our role not just as a lake-based service provider, but as a national shipping company ready to connect Tanzania to the world.”

Originally operating under the East African Railways and Harbours (EARH) until its collapse in 1977, MSCL later became a marine division under the Tanzania Railways Corporation (TRC) before gaining autonomy in 1997. Since then, it has been providing crucial transport services across Lake Victoria, Lake Tanganyika, and Lake Nyasa, linking Tanzania to neighbouring countries including Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, Burundi, Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

With the rebranding to TASHICO, the company will continue to expand beyond the Great Lakes, venturing into the Indian Ocean and even exploring opportunities in deep-sea shipping corridors to the Far East. According to Hamissi, this strategic repositioning is expected to unlock new revenue streams, foster international partnerships, and elevate Tanzania’s status in global maritime trade.

TASHICO’s revival story stems from a major policy U-turn. Originally earmarked for privatisation, the government in 2015 cancelled the plan after failing to secure a suitable investor. Instead, it opted to reinvest in the company—marking the start of a new era of growth.

Major General (rt) John Mbungo, Chairman of the TASHICO Board said: “The government recognised the strategic importance of the shipping sector, not just for economic purposes but also for national cohesion and integration,” says “It has since committed substantial resources to retooling and modernising the fleet.”

Among flagship investments is the MV Mwanza, the largest passenger ship on the Great Lakes, with a capacity of 1,200 passengers and 400 tonnes of cargo. The government has also funded comprehensive renovations of ageing vessels and constructed a modern slipway on Lake Victoria, cutting repair costs and ensuring greater operational efficiency.

In Lake Nyasa, the government has transferred three ships from the Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA) to TASHICO, boosting capacity to serve the southern regions. A contract has also been signed to build a new shipyard on Lake Tanganyika, which will include a slipway capable of handling vessels weighing up to 5,000 tonnes.

This enhanced infrastructure is critical to TASHICO’s long-term strategy of becoming a regional shipping leader. “We aim to serve both inland and oceanic transport needs—from general cargo and petroleum to large-scale logistics,” Hamissi emphasises.

The newly adopted TASHICO logo and corporate identity reflect a modernised, forward-looking company—one that projects Tanzania’s maritime strength at home and abroad. With the government’s continued support, the company is positioned to play a central role in realising President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s vision of a modern, inclusive, and globally competitive economy.

As TASHICO navigates this new chapter, its leadership is keen on establishing formal partnerships with international actors and positioning itself as a reliable shipping partner in East and Central Africa.

“This name will help us open doors in new international markets, attract partners, and showcase Tanzania as a logistics hub,” says Hamissi. “We are no longer just operators on the lakes—we are now part of the global shipping conversation.”

The shift from MSCL to TASHICO represents more than a rebranding exercise—it is a strategic reset designed to ensure Tanzania’s marine transport sector contributes meaningfully to national development, regional trade, and international connectivity.