BUKOBA

  • Latitude: -1.34641
  • Longitude: 31.8155
  • East Africa
  • Port in Tanzania

Address: Bukoba Tanzania

Bukoba Port Overview

Bukoba Port is one of the key ports situated on the western shore of Lake Victoria in Tanzania. It serves as a crucial hub for regional transportation and trade, linking Tanzania with neighboring countries such as Uganda and Kenya. The port plays a vital role in facilitating the movement of both passengers and cargo across the lake and beyond.

Specifications and Features

  1. Location:

    • Coordinates: Approximately 1.3320° S, 31.8123° E.
    • Region: Kagera Region, Tanzania.
  2. Infrastructure:

    • Wharfs/Piers: Bukoba port features a main wharf that is utilized for the docking of passenger ships and cargo vessels.
    • Docking Facilities: Adequate mooring facilities to handle a range of ships, from small boats to medium-sized vessels.
    • Cargo Handling: Equipped with basic cargo handling equipment including cranes and forklifts for loading and unloading goods.
  3. Port Capacity:

    • Passenger Services: The port facilitates passenger ferry services, providing connectivity for a significant number of passengers traveling across Lake Victoria.
    • Cargo Throughput: Handles a variety of cargo including agricultural products, consumer goods, machinery, and construction materials, though it has limitations compared to major international ports.
  4. Accessibility:

    • Road Connectivity: Bukoba is accessible via major roads linking it to other parts of the Kagera region and the rest of Tanzania.
    • Air Access: The town of Bukoba is served by Bukoba Airport, which provides additional connectivity for passengers and time-sensitive cargo.
  5. Services:

    • Passenger Ferry Lines: Regular ferry services to Mwanza and other port towns within the Lake Victoria region.
    • Cargo Services: Provision for freight services handling imports and exports through Lake Victoria.
  6. Future Developments:

    • Expansion Plans: Potential plans for upgrading port facilities to boost capacity and efficiency, including possible upgrades to existing infrastructure and acquisition of modern handling equipment.
  7. Economic Impact:

    • Regional Trade: Plays a significant role in regional trade, enhancing economic integration within the East African Community (EAC).
    • Local Economy: Vital for the local economy, supporting both the transportation sector and local businesses.
  8. Environmental and Safety Considerations:

    • Regulations: Adheres to national and regional regulations regarding environmental protection and maritime safety.
    • Sustainability Practices: Efforts to ensure sustainable operations through measures aimed at reducing environmental impact.

Conclusion

Bukoba Port is instrumental in fostering regional connectivity and enhancing trade across Lake Victoria. While it may not match the scale of larger international ports, it holds considerable significance for the local and regional economies, providing essential transportation and cargo handling services. Ongoing and future development projects are expected to enhance its capacity and efficiency, further solidifying its role in Tanzania's transport infrastructure.

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