Tanzania Launches Major Blue Economy Initiative
Tanzania is embarking on a significant initiative to enhance its blue economy by rehabilitating idle vessels and constructing two large cargo ships. This ambitious program aims to boost maritime transport’s role in economic growth and align with the country’s long-term development goals. The announcement was made during the 18th Joint Transport Sector Review (JTSR) in Arusha, where officials outlined plans to revitalize inland water transport and improve trade efficiency.
Reviving Inland Water Transport
During the JTSR, Deputy Minister for Transport David Kihenzile revealed that the government has initiated the process of sourcing contractors to rehabilitate stalled vessels across the nation. The focus will be on the Kigoma, Katavi, and Rukwa regions, which heavily depend on Lake Tanganyika for transportation. This initiative aims to stimulate trade, reduce transport costs, and enhance the efficiency of cargo and passenger services on Tanzania’s major lakes.
In addition to rehabilitating existing vessels, the government plans to construct two new cargo ships. One vessel, designed for Lake Tanganyika, will have a cargo capacity of 3,500 tonnes, while the other, intended for Lake Victoria, will accommodate 3,000 tonnes. These new ships are expected to bolster cross-border trade with neighboring countries and increase national revenues from maritime transport.
As part of a broader strategy, the government also intends to establish a large shipbuilding and repair facility within Tanzania. This facility aims to reduce the high costs associated with overseas repairs and build domestic capacity in maritime engineering and technology. The overarching goal is to position Tanzania as a blue economy hub in East and Central Africa, supporting progress towards the National Development Vision 2050.
Collaborative Efforts for Transport Development
The JTSR, running from December 15 to 17, 2025, is themed “Integrated transportation system as the foundation of economic transformation towards Vision 2050.” It seeks to evaluate the implementation of policies, plans, and projects across the transport sector. Key stakeholders, including government officials, development partners, and civil society organizations, are participating in the discussions.
Prof. Godius Kahyarara, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Transport, emphasized that the annual forum serves as a platform for transport professionals to align their plans and collaboratively address implementation challenges. Discussions will focus on progress in upgrading road, rail, port, and aviation infrastructure, as well as the constraints affecting timely and efficient project execution.
Environmental considerations and the transport sector’s role in driving national economic growth are also key topics of discussion. The meeting provides an opportunity to review resource utilization, transparency, and accountability in project implementation, while setting priorities for the upcoming year.
