Tanzania Signs $565m Deal With World Bank to Develop its Main Port.

17th Sep 2014 Development in Tanzania as the nation signed a deal worth $565m with the World Bank and other development partners to expand its main port of Dar es Salaam.

The upgrade is part of plans to boost the east African nation’s role as a regional trade hub with equal attention also planned for Tanzania’s rail services.

The Dar es Salaam port handled 14.6 million tonnes in 2013/2014, but estimates an increase to 28 million tonnes a year by 2020. The port currently serves Zambia, Rwanda, Malawi, Burundi and Uganda and the eastern region of Democratic Republic of the Congo and handles $15bn worth of goods a year.

Tanzania’s Transport Minister Harrison Mwakyembe has shared his joy at the deal, especially concerning the resultant impact on trade and productivity. And the World Bank Group Managing director Sri Mulyani Indrawati has advised the country to seek more private sector support in ensuring the continued development of Tanzania’s infrastructure.