President Samia Suluhu Hassan will officially launch the Kwala Dry Port on July 31 in the Coast Region, a development hailed by experts as a major boost to Tanzania’s logistics and regional trade.

Economists and industry stakeholders say the port will cut haulage costs, ease congestion at the Dar es Salaam Port, and enhance cargo flow across East and Central Africa.

Dr. Sylvester Jotta of SAUT described the facility as a “game-changer,” noting it will streamline cargo movement, attract investment, and position Tanzania as a key trade hub for landlocked neighbors like DRC, Rwanda, Burundi, Uganda, and Zambia.

Economist Dr. Hildebrand Shayo emphasized the port’s integration with rail transport, which he said will reduce road damage, lower emissions, and improve safety. “Each cargo train can replace up to 600 truck trips a month,” he noted.

Kwala is also expected to boost government revenue, create jobs, and strengthen public-private partnerships. An agreement with the DRC has already designated it as a strategic dry port, solidifying Tanzania’s role in intra-African trade.