Zanzibar Port Faces Unprecedented Cargo Congestion, Strategic Solutions Underway
Cargo deliveries to Zanzibar are experiencing significant delays due to congestion at Malindi Port, disrupting critical shipping schedules. Vessel waiting times have now reached approximately 35 days, primarily stemming from prioritized bulk cargo transportation for essential goods.
The disruption, which began in February, has substantially impacted transit times for shipments to the islands. Port authorities report an unexpected surge in cargo volumes, with April alone recording 147,000 metric tonnes—nearly 29 percent of the typical annual cargo handling.
Port leadership attributes the congestion to ongoing infrastructure projects and increased economic activity. To address these challenges, strategic solutions are being rapidly implemented:
– Fast-tracking commissioning of the Mangapwani bulk terminal
– Collaborating with alternative port facilities to expand offloading capacity
– Conducting test runs to optimize cargo handling efficiency
The Zanzibar Ports Authority remains optimistic about resolving the current bottleneck. Future plans include:
– Completing a new land craft platform within three months
– Developing a new jetty at Fumba by September 2026, which is expected to expand berthing capacity fivefold
– Potentially reducing waiting times by up to 80 percent
Port officials anticipate normalizing operations within two weeks and are actively engaging with shipping partners to develop short-term and long-term solutions to the unprecedented cargo volumes.
