INHAMBANE

• MZINH
• Latitude: -23.8675
• Longitude: 35.377
• East Africa
• Port in Mozambique

Location: Inhambane Inhambane Province Mozambique

Inhambane is a port town in southeastern Mozambique, situated on the coast of the Indian Ocean. Known for its rich history and pristine beaches, Inhambane serves as an important yet smaller-scale port in Mozambique's maritime infrastructure. Here’s a detailed description and specifications of Inhambane port:

Port Description:

• Location:

  • Latitude: Approximately 23.865° S
  • Longitude: Approximately 35.387° E
  • Inhambane is located in Inhambane Province, around 485 kilometers northeast of Maputo, the capital of Mozambique.

• Historical Significance:

  • Inhambane has a long history as a trade center, dating back to the 11th century when it was frequented by Arab and Persian traders. The town later became a key port for the Portuguese during the colonial period.

Port Specifications:

• Facilities:

  • Berths: Inhambane port has limited berthing facilities, primarily supporting small to medium-sized vessels. It is not designed to handle large, modern container ships.
  • Cargo Handling: Primarily focused on general cargo, with facilities available for the handling of smaller quantities of goods. Due to its size, the port has limited facilities for bulk, containerized, or heavy-lift cargo.
  • Anchorage: Anchorage areas are also available in the bay, but larger vessels may need to use nearby deeper waters, transferring cargo via smaller boats.

• Depth:

  • The port has relatively shallow draft limitations compared to major international ports. Specific depth information should be verified through the local port authority, as it can vary with tidal changes and sedimentation.

• Navigational Aids:

  • Basic navigational aids are in place to assist with safe entry and exit from the port. However, maritime pilots and updated nautical charts are crucial for navigating into Inhambane due to shifting sandbanks and other local geographical challenges.

• Services:

  • Repair Services: Limited to minor repairs. There are no major dry dock or shipbuilding facilities.
  • Fueling: Basic refueling services are available, but not suited for large-scale bunkering operations.
  • Water Supply: Freshwater supply available for vessels.

• Customs and Immigration:

  • The port is equipped with customs and immigration facilities for processing international arrivals and departures, though on a smaller scale compared to larger ports.

• Connectivity:

  • Road Connections: Inhambane is connected by road to major towns and cities, including routes that link to Maputo and Beira.
  • Air Connections: The nearby Inhambane Airport provides air connectivity to domestic destinations and occasional international flights.

Economic and Touristic Impact:

• Economic: The port plays a vital role in the local economy, supporting the fishing industry and the export of agricultural products. It also serves local and regional trade routes.
• Tourism: Inhambane is a well-known tourist destination, renowned for its beautiful beaches, diving spots, and cultural heritage. This tourism aspect contributes significantly to the region’s economy.

Challenges:

• The port of Inhambane faces challenges such as:
  • Sedimentation: Regular dredging may be necessary to maintain navigable depths.
  • Infrastructure: Limited facilities and infrastructure to handle large-scale commercial shipping effectively.

Future Prospects:

• There is ongoing interest in developing and upgrading port facilities due to Inhambane's strategic location and the potential for increased trade and tourism.

To obtain the most current and detailed data, including any recent upgrades or changes, contacting the local port authority or maritime agents within Mozambique is highly recommended.