The Kilwa Fishing Harbor is a 315-meter-long jetty extending into the ocean like a steel arm. Nearby, construction is in full swing on cold storage facilities, a trading market, office buildings, and a sewage treatment plant. This new harbor is expected to anchor Tanzania’s blue economy for years to come.
Unveiling Tanzania’s First Modern Large-Scale Fishing Harbor
The Kilwa Fishing Harbor is the brainchild of China Harbor Engineering Company Ltd (CHEC), a leading Chinese construction company. Covering about 5.6 hectares, it is designed to handle 60,000 tonnes of fish annually and can dock deep-sea fishing vessels. According to Chen Zhifeng, vice project manager of the CHEC Tanzania maritime project department, the project is a significant milestone for Tanzania’s maritime industry.
Enhancing Tanzania’s Blue Economy
Tanzania boasts abundant marine resources, and the waters around the Kilwa District lie along the migration route of tuna. However, the lack of modern fishing facilities has forced local fishermen to maneuver small boats close to the shore. Without proper cold storage, their catch spoils easily, resulting in unstable incomes. The Kilwa Fishing Harbor is expected to solve this problem, allowing fishermen to sell their catch more effectively and increasing their livelihoods.
Creating Jobs and Fostering Sustainability
The construction of the Kilwa Fishing Harbor has created nearly 600 direct jobs, including skilled roles like welders, crane operators, and excavator drivers. The Chinese company is also committed to sustainability, establishing protective boundaries around the surrounding mangroves where machinery is prohibited. An environmental team conducts monthly beach cleanups to remove marine waste, ensuring a safe and healthy environment for both humans and marine life.
Reviving Tanzania’s Maritime History
The Kilwa Fishing Harbor is not only a modern facility but also a tribute to Tanzania’s rich maritime history. Historical records show that Chinese navigator Zheng He led massive fleets during the Ming Dynasty, reaching as far as East Africa and the Red Sea. The ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani, a historic port on the Indian Ocean trade route, are nearby. Many pieces of Chinese porcelain have been unearthed at the site, demonstrating the long-standing friendship between Tanzania and China.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s Vision
Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan attended the groundbreaking ceremony in 2023, emphasizing the significance of the project to the national economy and people’s livelihoods. The president’s vision for a thriving blue economy is reflected in the Kilwa Fishing Harbor’s design and construction.
The Kilwa Fishing Harbor is a testament to Tanzania’s commitment to developing its blue economy. With its modern facilities and sustainable design, it is poised to become a hub for the country’s fishing industry. As the harbor rises, it will not only boost the local economy but also revive Tanzania’s maritime history and foster a brighter future for generations to come.
