Fabiola Mushi
Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA) has purchased a tugboat worth 25bn/- to provide towing and pushing assistance to vessels particularly those lacking the propulsion flexibility needed to navigate specific areas at the natural deep-water port of Mtwara.
The tugboat dubbed Msanga Mkuu was assembled over the weekend at the port ready to be put into operation. Made and purchased in Vietnam, the tugboat can pull or push 55 to 58 tonnes cargos across the body of water.
Following the arrival of the marine vessel (tugboat), Mtwara Regional Commissioner Colonel Patric Sawala, expressed the government’s dedication to enhancing port efficiency and providing optimal services for port users.
Also Read: Dar Port Workers Given Transfer Choice To Join DP World
“The procurement of the tugboat clearly indicates the government’s ongoing commitment to offer reliable and satisfactory services to Mtwara Port users,” he stated.
Sudi Mwarabu, the Acting Manager of the Port, mentioned that the procurement of the tugboat was in line with directives given by President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan during her visit to the port in September 2023.
“The President promised to set more budget for improving the port towards making it the largest water gateway and an engine for the Southern Zone and neighbouring countries’ economic boom…and here she is walking her talk,” he said.
The President instructed TPA to ensure that the port is well-equipped with all necessary equipment to streamline port operations, attracting customers to utilize the extensively renovated port, the second largest in the country.
Also Read:Dar port managers court Ugandan businesses
On the other hand, Mr. Mwarabu mentioned that the tugboat is expected to assist the port management in handling more and larger vessels simultaneously.
Mtwara District Commissioner Ms. Mwanahamisi Munkunda stated that the investment in the port is poised to bring significant social and economic benefits to the residents of Mtwara Region and contribute to the country’s economic growth. The latest development report provided to the ‘Daily News’ by Port Manager Fernand Nyati reveals that the volume of cargo handled at the port has increased by 304.92% over the past three years.
“This impressive performance is attributed to improved infrastructure that has boosted efficiency, as well as the acquisition and utilization of modern cargo handling equipment and technologies that have enhanced the port’s global visibility, attracting a variety of shipping companies, export, and import agencies,” he explained.
According to the data, the port handled 1,628,615 metric tonnes in the fiscal year 2022/2023, exceeding the target of 402,200 tonnes. In 2023/2024, the port handled 1,126,300 tonnes, surpassing the target of 100,000 tonnes.
I’d have to test with you here. Which isn’t one thing I often do! I enjoy studying a submit that may make folks think. Additionally, thanks for permitting me to remark!