Zanzibar Railways Aims To Streamline Shipping Processes
The Secretary General of the Ministry of Construction and Transport, Gabriel Migire, has urged the Tanzania Railway Corporation (TRC) to work closely with the Ministry of Construction, Transport, and Communications in Zanzibar. The collaboration aims to ensure that the proposed railway across the islands meets standards and fulfils expectations.
The railway, which is planned to traverse Bububu, Mangapwani, Makobe, Bandaa kuu, Matemwe, Pwani, Mchangani, Kiwengwa to Pongwe, intends to streamline passenger and cargo transportation and tourism from the port to various city areas.
While concluding a meeting in Arusha, bringing together transport sector leaders and institution representatives from mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar, Secretary General Migire emphasized the necessity of engaging in the implementation, management, and operation of transportation projects.
Migire noted, “Given the population increase in the Zanzibar Islands, it’s crucial that the Ministry of Construction and Transport from Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar collaborates to address transportation challenges, thereby enhancing transportation activities.”
Secretary General Migire added that the completion of government projects across Mainland Tanzania and the Islands, when conducted to a high standard, will not only facilitate transportation but also render product prices more user-friendly.
Deputy Secretary General of the Ministry of Construction, Communications, and Transport from Zanzibar, Shomari Omari Shomari, expressed his gratitude to the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania and TRC for their expertise in road construction and operations, contributing to efficient project management.
“Even though we lack an organization dedicated to managing and operating railways on our islands, preparations for railway construction have begun. We trust that the support we receive from the TRC will greatly assist us in construction and operations,” said Deputy Secretary General Shomari.
Regarding air travel, the Director of Tanzania Airlines (ATCL), Engineer Ladislaus Matindi, announced that the government, through Air Tanzania, is in the final stages of preparing to commence flights from Dar es Salaam to Unguja and Pemba.
The Government of the United Republic of Tanzania and the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar hold quarterly meetings to share experiences in operating sub-sectors of Water, Air, Rail, and Port Transport.
