The Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA) is a public organization working under the Ministry of Infrastructure Development. Its job is to manage and operate the ocean and lake ports across Tanzania. You can find the TPA headquarters in the Mchafukoge ward of the Ilala District in Dar es Salaam. The TPA is also a proud member of the Port Management Association of Eastern and Southern Africa.

Location of Tanzania Ports Authority

The Tanzania Ports Authority has key operations in several locations:

  • Dar es Salaam
  • Tanga
  • Mtwara
  • Bagamoyo
  • Mafia
  • Kilwa
  • Pangani
  • Kigoma
  • Kasanga
  • Mwanza
  • Musoma
  • Bukoba
  • Kyela

Overview of Tanzania’s Ports

  • Major Sea Ports
  • Major Lake Ports
  • Minor Sea Ports
  • Ports Under Construction

A Quick History of Tanzania Ports

Let’s take a look at the history of these vital ports. The first formal commercial ports were developed in German East Africa. The Tanga Port was established in 1883, connecting to the Usambara Railway, while the Dar es Salaam Port followed in 1905, linking to the Tanzania Central Railway. During the colonial period, these ports were managed by railway authorities.

In 1947, the British government created the East African Railways and Harbours Corporation. This corporation combined the Kenya and Uganda Railways with the Tanganyika Railway, taking control of all Tanganyikan ports and harbours.