The Kwala Dry Port in the Coast Region is set to experience a major surge in containerized cargo volumes starting next month, thanks to a new link with the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR). The enhanced rail connectivity promises to significantly improve cargo handling efficiency and expand the port’s role as a central hub in East Africa’s trade and logistics network.
Currently, the port handles about 20 containers per day, but with the new SGR link, this number is expected to double, reaching 40 containers per day. The introduction of block trains running directly to Kwala is expected to streamline the movement of goods, cutting down on transportation time and costs, while improving overall capacity.
This development is seen as a major milestone in Tanzania’s efforts to modernize and optimize its transport infrastructure. With the SGR connection, Kwala Dry Port will become a more attractive option for businesses, particularly those dealing in large volumes of cargo. The increase in cargo throughput will likely benefit both importers and exporters, ensuring faster delivery times and greater reliability in the supply chain.
Local authorities have welcomed the move, citing the port’s potential to further boost economic growth in the Coast Region and beyond. With the added capacity, Kwala Dry Port is set to handle an increasing number of international shipments, contributing to Tanzania’s ambitions to become a leading transport and logistics hub in East Africa.
This development is expected to create numerous job opportunities, improve trade relations within the East African Community (EAC), and contribute significantly to the national economy.
As Tanzania continues to build its reputation as a regional transport hub, the enhanced SGR connection to Kwala is seen as a critical step towards modernizing the country’s logistics and boosting its competitive edge in international trade.
