Tanzania Expands Logistics Infrastructure with New Dry Ports to Boost Regional Trade
Tanzania is making significant strides in enhancing its logistics infrastructure with the development of two strategic dry ports aimed at transforming the country’s trade capabilities.
The Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA) has acquired 490 hectares of land for the Ihumwa Dry Port in Dodoma, complementing the ongoing expansion of the Kwala Dry Port in the Coast Region. These infrastructure investments are designed to reduce congestion at the Port of Dar es Salaam and position Tanzania as a critical regional trade hub.
The Ihumwa Dry Port project will feature comprehensive logistics infrastructure, including railway lines, a large marshalling yard, and advanced facilities for handling imports and exports. Located strategically to connect central regions, the port will significantly improve goods transportation efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
The Kwala Dry Port, spanning 500 hectares, has already demonstrated impressive capabilities, currently handling 300,000 containers annually and reducing port congestion by 70 percent. By 2030, the facility is projected to increase its capacity to 500,000 containers, driven by growing regional demand.
Multiple neighboring countries, including Burundi, Rwanda, Democratic Republic of Congo, and others, are securing spaces within these dry port facilities, underlining Tanzania’s emerging role in regional trade infrastructure.
Complementing these developments, the government is advancing several strategic initiatives, including the standard gauge railway project and modern training systems at the maritime institute. These efforts collectively aim to enhance Tanzania’s logistics efficiency, reduce transportation costs, and improve multi-modal transport options.
The ongoing infrastructure investments reflect a comprehensive approach to transforming Tanzania’s trade capabilities, positioning the country as a key logistics and trade gateway in East Africa.
