Zanzibar has launched construction of the Mangapwani Integrated Port on Unguja’s northern coast, authorities said Friday, aiming to decongest the aging Malindi port and strengthen the archipelago’s position in regional trade corridors.
President Hussein Ali Mwinyi told local media that the project is intended to tackle structural bottlenecks at Malindi, which was built in 1920 and struggles to handle modern freight. The outdated facilities prolong delivery times, raise logistics costs, and limit trade volumes.
“Mangapwani port will provide modern infrastructure to meet growing trade demands and support economic diversification,” Mwinyi said.
The new port will feature multifunctional infrastructure capable of handling 200,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) of containerized cargo and 1 million tonnes of general cargo annually. The upgraded facilities are designed to accommodate larger vessels, increase cargo throughput, and improve operational efficiency.
Supporting infrastructure and energy capacity
The development will include a dedicated power generation plant and fuel storage tanks with a combined capacity of 60 million liters, ensuring reliable energy for port operations and associated industries. Authorities said these facilities are critical for supporting Zanzibar’s tourism-driven economy and broader industrial activities.
Zanzibar plans to integrate Mangapwani port into East Africa’s trade corridors, enhancing connectivity with mainland Tanzania and neighboring regional markets. Officials said the port would provide an alternative to Malindi, which has reached capacity limits and faces operational inefficiencies.
“Reliable logistics and energy supply are crucial to promoting exports, imports, and investment in the archipelago,” Mwinyi added.
Economic and regional significance
The Mangapwani project aligns with Zanzibar’s broader economic diversification strategy, which seeks to complement its tourism sector with expanded trade, logistics, and industrial activities. By providing modern port infrastructure, authorities aim to attract investment, reduce shipping delays, and lower costs for businesses.
Regional trade experts said the new port could position Zanzibar as a key gateway for East African imports and exports, particularly for containerized goods and bulk cargo. The project is also expected to generate employment opportunities during construction and future port operations.
Next steps and timeline
Officials have not disclosed an exact completion date, but construction has officially started, with preparatory works underway. Project planners highlighted the importance of efficient project management, regulatory support, and private-sector engagement to ensure timely delivery.
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Mangapwani port will complement ongoing investments in Zanzibar’s infrastructure, including roads, airports, and utility networks, providing a modern logistics backbone for the archipelago. Authorities said the facility would also help stabilize supply chains for tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing sectors, making the economy more resilient to shocks.
“This development is not just about a port; it’s about connecting Zanzibar more effectively to regional and global markets,” said a senior trade official.
The launch of Mangapwani marks a significant step in Zanzibar’s efforts to modernize its port infrastructure, address logistical challenges, and enhance trade competitiveness in East Africa.
