By The Respondents ReporterPresident Samia Suluhu Hassan has unveiled four new cargo ships on Lake Tanganyika and launched the construction of the 506-kilometre Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) line from Tabora to Kigoma, marking a major step in Tanzania’s efforts to expand trade and transport infrastructure.
The projects are expected to strengthen connectivity between western Tanzania and key economic centres by linking rail, marine transport and other logistics networks.
President Samia said the government’s investment in an integrated transport system aims to lower transportation costs, improve efficiency and create a more competitive environment for businesses.
“Kigoma will no longer be the end of the railway line. It will become the beginning of new opportunities for trade and investment,” she said.
The President said the Tabora-Kigoma SGR, once completed, will connect Kigoma with the Port of Dar es Salaam and ports along Lake Tanganyika, providing a reliable transport corridor for cargo movement within Tanzania and across neighbouring countries.
She said the expansion of transport infrastructure will create opportunities in sectors including railway services, ports, logistics, warehousing, hospitality and other support industries.
For Kigoma residents, the projects are expected to improve access to markets by making it easier and cheaper to transport agricultural produce, fishing products and other goods.
President Samia also directed the Ministry of Transport to work with the private sector to establish a modern ship maintenance facility in Kigoma to support the growth of marine transport and ensure sustainability of the new vessels.
Transport Minister Prof Makame Mbarawa said the four ships are part of the government’s plan to expand marine transport services on Lake Tanganyika through public-private partnerships.
He said Tanzania targets to have 14 new vessels by 2028, increasing cargo capacity and strengthening trade links within the Great Lakes region.
The new vessels were built by China’s Zhiji Mining Group, whose Vice President Qiu Guozhu said the company would continue supporting improvements at Kigoma Port and transport infrastructure to enhance regional trade.
Qiu said the project reflects the growing economic partnership between Tanzania and China.
“Mradi huu ni ushahidi wa urafiki unaoendelea kuimarika na ushirikiano wa vitendo kati ya China na Tanzania,” he said.
