The Kwala Dry Port is designed to reduce congestion at Dar es Salaam Party. Photo: Courtesy
Burundian Government Kicks Off Major Construction at Kwala Dry Port in Tanzania
By Adonis Byemelwa
Kwala, Pwani: In a landmark event, the Government of the Republic of Burundi has officially launched the construction of vital infrastructure at the Kwala Dry Port in Pwani Region, Tanzania. This significant development signals the start of building the perimeter fence and essential port facilities on a 10-hectare plot.
This land was graciously granted by the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania through the Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA) to Burundi. This collaboration underlines a strategic partnership between the two nations, promising to boost regional trade and economic growth.Bottom of Form
Speaking at the ceremony, Burundi’s Minister of Transport, Marie Chantal Nijimbere, emphasized the strategic importance of the Kwala Dry Port in bolstering the economies of both nations and enhancing international trade.
“The development of this dry port is crucial for the economic growth of our countries and the facilitation of international trade,” she said. “It will simplify cargo importation, allowing importers to handle their shipments directly at the dry port instead of traveling to the seaport.”
Representing Tanzania’s Minister of Transport, Deputy Permanent Secretary Dr. Ally Possi highlighted the strong bilateral relations aimed at boosting trade and economic growth. “Today’s launch is a testament to the excellent relations between our countries, focusing on enhancing trade and economic development,” he stated. “The construction of port infrastructure will be a catalyst for economic growth, significantly reducing transportation costs in East Africa, particularly along the Central Corridor.” Dr. Possi noted that the Kwala facility can store over 30,000 containers simultaneously.
Burundi’s Minister of Transport, Marie Chantal Nijimbere.Photo: Courtesy
Flory Okandju, Executive Secretary of the Central Corridor Transit Transport Facilitation Agency, praised the member states for this critical milestone. “This launch is another significant step towards regional integration, improving transportation infrastructure, and promoting trade,” Okandju said.
He added that the Central Corridor, which conducted the feasibility study and design for the Kwala Dry Port, will collaborate with Burundi in the construction phase to facilitate faster and more reliable goods transport, thus boosting trade volumes and economic growth.
Speaking on behalf of the Director General of TPA, Marketing and Public Relations Director Dr. George Fasha stated that the primary objective of the Kwala Dry Port is to alleviate congestion at the Dar es Salaam Port.
“The Kwala Dry Port is designed to reduce congestion at Dar es Salaam Port,” he said. “Users of the Kwala Dry Port will benefit from numerous advantages, including a 60-day grace period for cargo handling.”
This initiative is poised to become a cornerstone in regional trade, providing a streamlined and efficient logistics solution that enhances the flow of goods across East Africa. The Kwala Dry Port represents a significant step towards realizing a more integrated and economically vibrant region.
With improved transportation infrastructure, it is expected to attract more investors and boost local economies, creating job opportunities and fostering entrepreneurship.
The collaboration between Burundi and Tanzania in this project exemplifies a commitment to regional cooperation, setting a precedent for future infrastructure developments in East Africa. As the port becomes operational, it will not only serve as a hub for trade but also strengthen ties among neighboring countries, ultimately contributing to a more prosperous and connected African continent.
