KIGOMA – Tanzania is set to expand regional trade opportunities after the introduction of four new cargo vessels that will improve transport links on Lake Tanganyika and strengthen commercial ties with neighbouring countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Burundi.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan is expected to launch the vessels, which have a combined capacity to transport up to 2,000 tonnes of cargo per trip.
Speaking in Kigoma, Minister for Transport Prof. Makame Mbarawa said the vessels would provide a reliable transport option for businesses moving goods across Lake Tanganyika and increase Kigoma’s role as a regional logistics hub.
“This development will make Kigoma a centre for transport and trade for countries around Lake Tanganyika,” Prof. Mbarawa said.
He said the project would support economic growth by creating more than 600 direct jobs, including opportunities for marine workers, drivers and other service providers involved in cargo transportation.
The minister said improved lake transport would reduce challenges faced by traders and enhance Tanzania’s position as a key gateway for regional markets.
Kigoma Regional Commissioner Ambassador Simon Sirro said the new vessels would help address delays previously experienced in transporting cargo to DRC, where some shipments took up to two months to reach their destinations.
“The improved transport system will help traders move goods faster and support increased business activities between Tanzania and neighbouring countries,” Ambassador Sirro said.
The launch of the vessels will also coincide with President Samia laying the foundation stone for the construction of the sixth phase of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), connecting Tabora to Kigoma.
The railway project is expected to further improve connectivity and complement lake transport services, positioning Kigoma as a strategic trade and transport corridor linking Tanzania with Central African markets.
