The Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA) has announced plans to work with local and international partners to expand the country’s port capacity and improve efficiency as trade volumes continue to grow.
Speaking at the 18th Joint Transport Sector Performance Review Meeting held recently in Arusha, TPA’s Director of Planning, Quality and Risk Management, Dr Boniface Nobeji, said the authority is committed to strategic port development. He spoke on behalf of TPA Director General Plasduce Mbosa.
Dr Nobeji explained that Tanzania’s ports play a key role in supporting both the national economy and regional trade, serving not only Tanzania but also neighbouring landlocked countries. With increasing cargo traffic, TPA believes partnerships with private investors are necessary to modernise infrastructure, increase handling capacity, and reduce congestion at major ports.
He said the authority is focusing on expanding key facilities such as Dar es Salaam Port, as well as improving smaller ports along the coast and inland waterways. Planned upgrades include deeper berths, modern cargo-handling equipment, digital systems, and better road and rail connections to ports.
During the meeting, TPA was recognised for its strong performance in improving port operations and supporting transport sector reforms. Arusha District Commissioner Joseph Mkude presented an award to Dr Nobeji in recognition of the authority’s contribution to the sector.
Dr Nobeji noted that improved port services will lower the cost of doing business, attract more investment, and strengthen Tanzania’s position as a regional logistics hub. He added that TPA remains committed to transparency, efficiency, and sustainability as it engages potential partners.
The move to seek partnerships comes as Tanzania continues to invest heavily in transport infrastructure, including railways, roads, and ports, to support long-term economic growth and regional trade integration.
