The Tanzanian government has announced that work on the long-delayed Bagamoyo Port will officially commence in December, marking a significant step forward for one of East Africa’s most ambitious infrastructure and economic development projects.
Gerson Msigwa, Chief Government Spokesperson, said during a press briefing on Sunday that the port will feature 28 berths once fully completed, though construction will initially begin with 14. He added that heavy machinery and equipment required for the first phase are already being transported to the project site, which lies about 75 kilometres north of Dar es Salaam.
Designed with a depth of up to 20 metres, Bagamoyo Port is expected to accommodate larger vessels than any existing port in the East African region. According to Msigwa, it will be able to handle ships carrying up to 25,000 containers, positioning Tanzania as a major regional logistics hub once operational. However, the government did not disclose the contractor handling the first phase or the current financial scope of the project.
A Project Delayed for Over a Decade
The Bagamoyo development is part of a broader special economic zone initiative that includes industrial parks, expanded road networks, and new rail infrastructure intended to attract investment and boost exports. Tanzania initially signed a framework agreement with China Merchants Holdings International and Oman’s State General Reserve Fund in 2013. Yet implementation stalled for years after Tanzanian authorities described some contractual terms as unfavourable to national interests.
Momentum resumed after President Samia Suluhu Hassan took office in 2021 and initiated negotiations to revive the estimated $10 billion megaproject. Her administration signaled a more flexible approach aimed at adjusting the terms while preserving Tanzania’s strategic and economic priorities.
Looking Ahead
Officials expect that once completed, Bagamoyo Port will relieve congestion at Dar es Salaam Port and strengthen Tanzania’s competitiveness in regional maritime trade. The government has also highlighted potential job creation and increased foreign investment as key benefits.
Further announcements, including final project financing and contractor details, are expected as the December start date approaches.
Source:Africa Publicity
