Unguja. Zanzibar is on the brink of a major economic and logistical transformation following the successful trial operations of cargo offloading at the newly developed Mpigaduri Port in Maruhubi—an ambitious infrastructure project spearheaded by ZF Devco in partnership with the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar.
The project, which is already being hailed as a game-changer, directly addresses long-standing congestion challenges at Malindi Port, where increased volumes of cargo and passengers have strained operations and slowed service delivery.
Speaking during the launch of the pilot operations, Zanzibar’s Minister for Works and Transport, Dr Khalid Salum Mohamed, commended the progress and efficiency demonstrated by the facility, noting that full cargo operations are expected to officially commence in April following the successful completion of trials.
“This is a highly encouraging step. What we have witnessed here reflects both quality and readiness. The commencement of full operations will significantly ease pressure on Malindi Port,” he said.
At the heart of this transformation is ZF Devco, whose strategic investment—valued at over TSh 627 billion—underscores its commitment to delivering world-class infrastructure that unlocks economic potential.
The company’s collaboration with the government reflects a shared vision of modernizing Zanzibar’s maritime transport ecosystem while creating new avenues for trade and investment.
The Director General of the Zanzibar Ports Corporation, Akif Ali Khamis, acknowledged the critical role played by ZF Devco in bringing the project to life, emphasizing that the port is a cornerstone of broader efforts to enhance transport infrastructure across the islands.
Beyond easing congestion, the Maruhubi development introduces a modern, integrated logistics and commercial hub designed to improve cargo turnaround times and streamline operations. Industry players, including Azam Marine, have already pointed to the port’s potential to significantly boost operational efficiency.
What sets the Maruhubi project apart is its forward-looking design. Anchored by a state-of-the-art Passenger and Vehicle (RoRo) Terminal, the facility is positioned to handle an estimated 600,000 passengers annually, alongside more than 31,000 vehicles passing daily along the busy Malawi Road corridor.
In addition to transport infrastructure, ZF Devco has incorporated a vibrant commercial component into the project. Retail and warehouse spaces are being rapidly taken up, reflecting strong investor confidence.
Retail units range between 108 and 125 square meters, while warehouse spaces span 285 to 424 square meters—offering scalable solutions for businesses seeking to establish themselves within a high-traffic economic zone.
Early investors have already secured their presence, recognizing the strategic advantage of positioning within what is set to become Zanzibar’s premier logistics and commercial hub. With limited space remaining, businesses are being encouraged to act swiftly to capitalize on this opportunity.
As Zanzibar continues to position itself as a competitive trade and tourism destination, the Maruhubi Port project stands as a testament to the transformative power of public-private partnerships. Through its vision, investment, and execution, ZF Devco is not only redefining port infrastructure in Zanzibar but also laying the foundation for sustained economic growth and regional connectivity.
