Zanzibar Launches $300M Mangapwani Port to Boost Trade and Energy

Zanzibar has launched construction of the $300 million Mangapwani Integrated Port in North Unguja, in a move aimed at addressing critical infrastructure bottlenecks constraining the island’s economic expansion.

The project, initiated under President Hussein Ali Mwinyi, targets three structural challenges: port congestion at the ageing Malindi facility, limited energy capacity, and elevated fuel costs that continue to weigh on business activity and trade competitiveness.

Replacing legacy infrastructure

Malindi Port, built in 1920, has long struggled with capacity limitations, operating with a single small berth and facing persistent congestion. This has increased turnaround times, raised logistics costs and constrained trade volumes.

The Mangapwani development is designed to shift Zanzibar toward a modern, multi-functional port system capable of handling higher cargo volumes and improving operational efficiency.

Integrating energy and logistics

Beyond maritime infrastructure, the project reflects a broader strategy to integrate logistics with energy supply.

High fuel costs and limited energy availability have been key constraints for Zanzibar’s economy, particularly for transport, tourism and light industry. By embedding energy considerations into port development, authorities are aiming to improve fuel access and reduce supply chain inefficiencies.

Strategic positioning in regional trade

The new port is expected to strengthen Zanzibar’s role within East African trade corridors, improving connectivity with mainland Tanzania and regional markets.

As trade volumes across East Africa continue to expand, infrastructure upgrades such as Mangapwani are becoming essential to capture growth and support economic diversification.

Energy Access

The project signals a shift toward addressing structural constraints through integrated infrastructure investment. If delivered on schedule, Mangapwani could significantly reduce logistics costs, improve energy access and enhance Zanzibar’s positioning within regional trade flows.

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