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| Permanent Secretary Dr. Natu E. Mwamba and Chief Representative of JICA, Mr. Ara Hitoshi Sign the Grant Agreement. Photo: Courtesy |
By Adonis Byemelwa
Dar es Salaam: Japan and Tanzania have united in a landmark agreement to transform Kigoma Port, injecting Sh 53 billion into a project set to elevate regional connectivity and fuel economic growth.
The partnership, formalized by Mr. Ara Hitoshi of the JICA Tanzania Office and Dr. Natu Mwamba, Permanent Secretary of Tanzania's Ministry of Finance, underlines a robust commitment to infrastructure development and bilateral cooperation.
This initiative, signed on July 11, 2024, marks a pivotal step towards fostering sustainable development and enhancing transport logistics across Lake Tanganyika and neighboring countries including Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Zambia.
Dr. Mwamba hailed the project as a crucial component of Tanzania's Development Plan III, aimed at enhancing competitiveness and fostering industrialization. She expressed gratitude for Japan's continued support, affirming the project's potential to stimulate economic activities and promote stability in the region.
"The rehabilitation of Kigoma Port is pivotal for our strategic goals of economic development and regional integration," remarked Dr. Mwamba.
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| Artistic Impression of the Kigoma Port PassengerTerminal:(Source: JICA) |
Mr. Ara highlighted JICA's longstanding partnership with Tanzania, emphasizing the agency's dedication to enhancing transport infrastructure and promoting sustainable development.
He emphasized the significance of Kigoma Port in facilitating trade and movement of goods across Lake Tanganyika, linking Tanzania with neighboring countries including Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Zambia.
"The project will not only improve port facilities but also contribute to safer and more efficient transport logistics," stated Mr. Ara.
The rehabilitation project encompasses the upgrade of passenger wharf facilities, the construction of a modern passenger terminal building, and the development of a reliable port access road.
These improvements aim to streamline passenger and cargo handling, enhancing safety and efficiency while supporting economic activities along the shores of Lake Tanganyika and beyond.
Japan's commitment to Tanzania's development dates back decades, with JICA playing a crucial role in various infrastructure projects across the country.
Initiatives such as the Selandar Bridge construction, the rehabilitation of key roads, and the Rusumo International Bridge demonstrate Japan's enduring support for Tanzania's infrastructure development and economic growth.
"This project is a testament to our ongoing partnership with Tanzania, aimed at fostering sustainable development and enhancing connectivity within the East African region," Mr. Ara affirmed.
Tanzania, now classified as a lower-middle-income country with a GNI per capita of $1,080 (2020, World Bank), is committed to advancing a competitive industrial economy to promote human development.
Key priorities include improving infrastructure, ensuring reliable energy access, enhancing the business environment for private sector growth, and integrating education and research with economic activities (2021, National Five-Year Development Plan III).
JICA's support focuses on driving economic growth, developing essential infrastructure, and improving governance and public service delivery. These initiatives are designed to accelerate Tanzania's development goals and foster sustainable progress.
The Sh3 billion Grant Agreement signifies a significant step towards realizing Tanzania's developmental goals, promoting regional integration, and strengthening ties between Japan and Tanzania.
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