How Mtwara, Mbambabay ports are driving economic growth, livelihoods

Dar es Salaam. The government's ambitious initiative to construct and expand the ports of Mtwara and Mbambabay is a game-changer for the southern regions of Tanzania.

These strategic projects are not just about infrastructure—they are paving the way for economic growth and better livelihoods.

Colonel Ahmed Abbas Ahmed, who has had the unique experience of leading both Mtwara and currently, Ruvuma as Regional Commissioner, speaks passionately about the positive changes these projects have brought.

For a region like Mtwara, which is renowned for its cashewnut production, the port is more than just a gateway to the world—it’s a lifeline for farmers and their families, he told journalists in an interview on September 4, 2024.

“Mtwara’s cashews are famous, but without a proper port, getting them to international markets was a challenge,” said Mr Ahmed.

“Now, with the Mtwara Port fully operational, farmers are seeing the benefits. They no longer have to worry about their produce being tampered with during the long journey to Dar es Salaam.”

This improvement is not just about convenience.

It’s about ensuring that the quality of cashews remains high, which in turn fetches better prices on the global market.

According to Mr Ahmed, this move has significantly reduced instances where dishonest transporters would mix low-quality cashews with the premium ones during transit.

“That used to hurt our farmers. But now, their hard work is paying off,” he added.

The impact of these ports extends beyond Mtwara.

In Ruvuma, where cashew farming is also taking root, the benefits are becoming clear.

The region, which produced 29,109 tons of cashews in the 2023/2024 season, is now aiming for a remarkable 55,730 tons in the 2024/2025 season.

This growth is directly tied to the availability of the Mtwara Port, which has made it easier and cheaper for farmers to get their produce to market.

“Before, transporting cashews from districts like Tunduru and Namtumbo was a costly and time-consuming process,” he explained.

“Now, with the Mtwara Port, we’ve cut those costs significantly, and farmers are reaping the rewards.”

But the government’s vision doesn’t stop at Mtwara.

The ongoing construction of the Mbambabay Port in Ruvuma is set to further enhance the region’s connectivity.

This Sh81 billion project is poised to become a vital link between Tanzania and Malawi, fostering closer economic ties and opening up new opportunities for trade.

“This port is going to be a game-changer,” said Mr Ahmed.

“Once it’s complete, we’ll see more interaction between Ruvuma and Malawi, which will be beneficial for both sides.”

The port is expected to facilitate the export of coal, one of Ruvuma’s key resources, which has been underutilised due to the lack of a proper cargo facility.

With the port’s completion, this is set to change, providing a new revenue stream for the region and creating jobs for local residents.

These developments are more than just infrastructure projects—they represent a new chapter for Mtwara and Ruvuma, according to the regional head.

“This is just the beginning,” Mr Ahmed emphasised.

“With these ports, we’re not only connecting our regions to the world—we’re securing a better future for our people.”