The Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA) has unveiled plans to significantly expand capacity at Tanga Port through the construction of three new berths with a combined length of 900 metres, beginning with an initial 300-metre berth, in a move expected to strengthen the port’s role as a strategic gateway for trade and accelerate economic growth in Tanzania.

Port Manager Salehe Mbega disclosed the expansion plans while briefing the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Infrastructure during its inspection visit to the port recently. The project is part of a broader government strategy to modernize port infrastructure, increase cargo-handling capacity, and position Tanga as a competitive entry point for regional and international trade.

According to Mbega, the additional berths will significantly improve vessel turnaround time and reduce congestion, enabling the port to handle larger volumes of cargo more efficiently.

“The construction of the new berths will expand Tanga Port’s operational capacity and enhance service delivery, ensuring that the port can accommodate more vessels and larger cargo volumes,” said Mbega. “This will ultimately translate into increased trade flows and higher revenue for the national economy.”

Members of the Parliamentary Committee commended the government’s continued investment in port infrastructure, noting that the modernization programme has already produced measurable improvements in operational efficiency.

Acting Committee Chairperson Joyce Ndalichako said the team was impressed by the progress made at the facility, particularly the smooth handling of cargo during the inspection visit.

“During our visit, we observed that cargo operations are running smoothly without delays or disruptions. The modernization works at Tanga Port are already delivering tangible results, including improved efficiency and increased revenue collection,” Ndalichako said after touring the project on March 13, 2026.

The government views the expansion of Tanga Port as a crucial step toward strengthening Tanzania’s position as a maritime gateway for the Northern Corridor and the broader East African hinterland. Improved port infrastructure is expected to facilitate trade, lower logistics costs, and stimulate economic activity in sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, and mineral exports.

Deputy Minister for Transport David Kihenzile thanked the parliamentary committee for its oversight and constructive feedback, assuring members that the ministry would implement the recommendations raised during the inspection.

“We appreciate the committee’s visit and the valuable guidance provided. All the advice and directives issued today will be carefully considered as we continue to improve the efficiency and competitiveness of our ports,” Kihenzile said.

Representing the Director General of the TPA, Director of Planning, Quality and Risk Management Boniphace Nobeji emphasized that the authority’s modernization drive is backed by strong government support aimed at transforming Tanzania’s maritime infrastructure.

“The support we receive from the government enables us to implement strategic projects that enhance port efficiency and strengthen Tanzania’s position as a regional trade hub,” Nobeji noted.

Mbega added that the recently completed upgrades at Tanga Port have already led to faster cargo handling and improved operational performance.

“The infrastructure improvements completed so far have greatly enhanced cargo handling efficiency, which is directly contributing to higher national revenue collections,” he said.

Once completed, the new berths are expected to further elevate the role of Tanga Port as a key maritime gateway, supporting Tanzania’s ambitions to expand trade, attract new shipping lines, and drive sustainable economic growth through the maritime sector.