Kwala Dry Port, Coast Region, Tanzania. In a landmark event marking a new era for regional trade and transport, Her Excellency Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of the United Republic of Tanzania, officially launched three major infrastructure projects aimed at boosting the Central Corridorconnectivity within the region. The historic ceremony, held on Thursday, July 31, 2025, saw the inauguration of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) Bloc Train, the Inauguration of the Kwala Industrial Park (KIP), the Kwala International Logistics Hub, and the commissioning of 20 rehabilitated Meter Gauge Railway (MGR) wagons under the support of the Central Corridor.

The event underscored Tanzania’s commitment to becoming a regional logistics powerhouse and drew a distinguished gathering of leaders from across East and Central Africa. Among the dignitaries were His Excellency Jean-Pierre Bemba Gombo, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Ways of Communication and Opening Up of the Democratic Republic of Congo; Hon. Dieudonné Dukundane, Minister of Infrastructure, Public Works and Social Housing of the Republic of Burundi; the Tanzanian Minister of Transport, Prof. Makame Mbarawa Mnyaa; and senior government officials. The presence of these regional leaders, along with Ambassadors and key figures from the Central Corridor Transit Transport Facilitation Agency (CCTTFA), highlighted the collaborative spirit driving these projects.

Driving Regional Connectivity: The SGR Bloc Train

President Samia began the day by launching the SGR Bloc Train, a symbol of modern regional connectivity. This project is a key part of a tripartite initiative involving Tanzania, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, designed to strengthen railway links and improve trade logistics across borders.

In her address, President Samia emphasized that the SGR Bloc Train is more than just a modern transport solution; it is a reflection of a shared regional commitment to reducing transport costs, facilitating trade, and promoting environmentally sustainable modes of transport. The SGR is poised to revolutionize the movement of goods, providing a fast and reliable alternative to road transport.

Transforming Logistics: The Kwala International Logistics Hub

The President then inaugurated the Kwala Dry Port and International Logistics Hub, a massive 502 – hectare facility strategically located to decongest the Port of Dar es Salaam. This hub is set to become a regional freight consolidation and clearance center, significantly enhancing intermodal transport by seamlessly connecting rail, road, and port systems.

President Samia highlighted the hub’s crucial role in streamlining customs processes and accelerating cargo handling. The Kwala Hub is a cornerstone of Tanzania’s vision to become a logistics leader in the region, providing a modern, efficient solution to the challenges of transit trade.

Revitalizing Rail: Rehabilitated Wagons Boost Capacity

The ceremony concluded with the commissioning of 20 rehabilitated Meter Gauge Railway (MGR) wagons for the Tanzania Railways Corporation (TRC). The project was made possible through the financial and technical support of the Central Corridor Transit Transport Facilitation Agency (CCTTFA).

Valued at one billion Tanzanian shillings (approximately USD 500,000), these wagons can haul up to 800 tons of cargo, significantly enhancing the efficiency of Tanzania’s existing rail services. The addition of these wagons is expected to ease pressure on regional road networks and improve the overall flow of goods. President Samia commended the Central Corridor for its continued partnership and reaffirmed her government’s dedication to sustainable infrastructure development.

“These three landmark achievements, realized through close regional collaboration and visionary leadership, stand as a testament to the Central Corridor’s vital role in facilitating transport, promoting trade, enhancing logistics, and advancing economic integration across East and Central Africa. As a key partner in these developments, the Central Corridor Transit Transport Facilitation Agency reaffirms its commitment to supporting infrastructure modernization that is inclusive, efficient, and climate-resilient , ensuring a prosperous future for our region,” said Advocate OKANDJU OKONGE Flory