Tanzania has pledged to strengthen cooperation with port authorities and maritime stakeholders across Eastern and Southern Africa to attract investment, improve port efficiency and reduce barriers to regional trade.
The commitment was made by the Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA), which said stronger partnerships, innovation and knowledge-sharing were essential to improving the competitiveness of ports and strengthening transport links across the region.
Speaking on October 28, 2026, TPA Director of Marketing and Public Relations, Dr George Fasha, said the authority was committed to supporting initiatives that promote investment and collaboration in the maritime sector.
Dr Fasha was representing TPA Director General at the opening of the Port Management Association of Eastern and Southern Africa (PMAESA) Investment Conference and Exhibition in Dar es Salaam.
He said PMAESA had an important role in bringing together port authorities, transport corridor operators and maritime stakeholders to address challenges affecting the region's logistics networks.
Such cooperation, he said, was critical to improving regional connectivity, facilitating trade and supporting economic growth.
"Through joint efforts, we can improve the efficiency of port operations and strengthen the resilience of transport systems that support Africa's development agenda," he said.
For countries that depend on regional transport corridors to move imports and exports, efficient ports are essential to controlling logistics costs, reducing delays and improving access to international markets.
Dr Fasha said collaboration among industry players would also create opportunities for investment, innovation and the exchange of expertise, helping ports respond to changing demands in international trade.
The conference and exhibition, which runs until October 30, has attracted representatives from more than 10 countries.
Participants are discussing ways to increase investment in port operations, strengthen integrated transport systems and expand cooperation among maritime industry players.
The meeting provides a platform for port authorities and other stakeholders to explore partnerships and identify investment opportunities that could strengthen the region's position in international trade.
For Tanzania, stronger regional port cooperation is particularly important as it seeks to consolidate its position as a gateway for trade serving neighbouring landlocked countries and wider regional markets.