ports

Zanzibar plots $500M seaport and free zone to reclaim maritime prominence

Zanzibar is pursuing development of an integrated seaport and free zone at Mangapwani to restore its standing as a regional maritime hub and compete with established East African gateways. Trade and Industrial Development Minister Shariff Ali Shariff said the initiative would improve cargo flow and expand import-export activity while positioning the semi-autonomous island competitively in global trade. The project carries an estimated cost of $500 million to $600 million and aims to attract substantial foreign investment through free port designation. The development could serve Indian Ocean transhipment volumes while supporting larger cargo infrastructure, logistics parks, warehousing, and industrial facilities beyond current capacity. Zanzibar's strategic location near key East African markets positions it to rival Dar es Salaam, Djibouti, and Mombasa. Terminal operators and shipping lines seeking African expansion opportunities are viewed as potential bidders. APM Terminals, DP World, and AD Ports have been identified as possible investors in the project.