The Zanzibar Ports Corporation (ZPC) recently finalized a concession agreement with the Dutch development entity Zanzibar Ferry Development Company (ZF Devco) for the establishment of a state-of-the-art passenger and RoRo ferry terminal within the Zanzibar archipelago, located in Tanzania.
This initiative aims to address the persistent congestion challenges encountered at Kenya's aging Malindi port, situated just over 300 kilometers to the north.
The project, known as the Maruhubi project, will unfold in two distinct phases, with an estimated total investment surpassing US$350 million.
Phase 1, requiring an investment of US$250 million, will encompass the construction of essential marine infrastructure and ferry terminals.
Subsequently, Phase 2, with an investment ranging between US$100 million to US$150 million, will entail the establishment of a special economic zone, accommodation facilities, retail establishments, logistics hubs, office complexes, and a sizable exhibition hall.
Anticipated to span 36 months from groundbreaking to completion, the project is slated to significantly alleviate congestion issues and catalyze economic growth in the region.
Hussein Mwinyi, the President of Zanzibar, underscored the significance of this endeavor, highlighting the government's collaboration with the private sector as instrumental in unlocking Zanzibar's economic potential.
ZF Devco, a constituent of an international consortium, comprises Dutch and Tanzanian firms such as Delta Marine Consultants, OrangeGaia, Kengo TZ, Borgh Go, TSCON, Equa-serve, Kimsons, C Concept Design, and DISC.