The government will complete the construction of Mbamba Bay Port in Ruvuma Region by August this year, Transport Minister Prof Makame Mbarawa has said, underscoring the project’s role in boosting trade and economic activity along Lake Nyasa.
Prof Mbarawa said the project, located in Nyasa District, has reached 47 percent completion and is progressing steadily.
He made the remarks after inspecting the construction works during his visit to the region.
“The government has invested Sh80 billion in the construction of this port,” Prof Mbarawa said. “As the Ministry of Transport, we are committed to ensuring the project is completed on time so that wananchi can access services and the local economy can grow.”
The port is expected to strengthen water transport on Lake Nyasa, reduce logistics costs and improve connectivity between Tanzania and neighbouring countries, while opening new opportunities for trade and investment in the southern highlands.
Prof Mbarawa also addressed concerns from residents living near the project area, assuring them that compensation will be paid in line with the law. “Compensation is not optional. It is a legal requirement, and all eligible citizens will be paid according to the existing laws and regulations,” he said.
Nyasa Member of Parliament John Nchimbi used the visit to raise concerns over coal transportation, calling on the ministry to resolve what he described as a persistent standoff between the Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA) and coal traders using Lake Nyasa ports.
“There is still a challenge in the transportation of coal,” Mr Nchimbi said. “We need a clear and practical solution to the disagreements between TPA and coal traders so that this important economic activity can proceed smoothly.”
Coal mining and trade are seen as key economic activities in the region, with reliable port infrastructure expected to play a central role in improving efficiency and market access.
TPA Project Manager Engineer John Paul said construction is on track and that there are no major risks to the project timeline.
“The works are progressing well,” he said. “Most of the required equipment and machinery have already arrived at the site, which puts us in a good position to complete the port on schedule.”
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Once completed, Mbamba Bay Port will significantly enhance regional trade, support the movement of bulk cargo such as coal and agricultural produce, and position Lake Nyasa as a more competitive transport corridor.
For the government, the project is part of a broader strategy to modernise transport infrastructure and unlock economic potential in underserved regions. As Prof Mbarawa put it, “This port is not just a structure. It is an investment in jobs, trade and long-term growth.”