The government has unveiled a comprehensive plan to combat coal dust pollution caused by coal transportation through the Port of Mtwara, with five major interventions already underway, lawmakers were told on Wednesday.

Speaking during a question-and-answer session in the National Assembly, Deputy Minister of State in the Vice-President’s Office (Union and Environment), Mr. Khamis Hamza Khamis, said the flagship measure is the construction of a new port at Kisiwa Mgao, located outside the Mtwara Mikindani Municipality.

The new port is being developed specifically to handle environmentally hazardous cargo, such as coal and cement. Once operational, coal trucks will bypass the municipality altogether, significantly reducing dust pollution in residential and commercial areas.

“This project is being implemented by the President’s Office–Regional Administration and Local Government in collaboration with the Vice-President’s Office,” the deputy minister said.

Mr. Khamis was responding to a question raised by Special Seats MP Ms. Tunza Malapo, who sought an update on government efforts to curb coal dust pollution in the region.

In addition to the new port, four other measures are being implemented:

Deployment of High-Capacity Loading Equipment: Two machines, each capable of loading 600 tonnes per hour, have been deployed. These are fitted with specialised conveyor belts designed to reduce dust emissions during loading operations.

Dust Prevention Nets: Protective netting has been installed around coal loading areas to contain airborne particles.

Mandatory Truck Covers: All trucks transporting coal are now required to use covers to prevent coal dust from escaping during transit.

Water Sprinkling Systems: Regular water spraying at coal storage and loading sites is being carried out to suppress dust emissions.

“These coordinated efforts reflect the government’s commitment to protecting the environment while supporting ongoing economic activity at the port,” Mr. Khamis concluded.