KILWA MASOKO

• TZKIM
• Latitude: -8.941
• Longitude: 39.507
• East Africa
• Port in Tanzania

Location: Kilwa Masoko Tanzania

Kilwa Masoko Marine Port, Tanzania

Introduction:

Kilwa Masoko is a small port located in Kilwa District in the Lindi Region of Tanzania. Known for its historical significance, maritime heritage, and as a gateway to the Kilwa Kisiwani ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the port plays a pivotal role in local maritime activities, tourism, and trade.

Geographic Coordinates:

• Latitude: -8.93328
• Longitude: 39.51005

Key Features & Specifications:

1. Port Type:

   • Coastal and natural harbor.

2. Port Infrastructure:

   • Basic infrastructure supporting small to medium-sized vessels.
   • A jetty for docking smaller vessels.
   • Limited cargo handling facilities.
   • Passenger terminals for ferry services.

3. Depth:

   • Varying depth with shallower areas, suitable mostly for smaller and medium-sized boats.
   • Draft limitations might restrict larger maritime vessels; details on exact draft limits should be checked with local maritime authorities.

4. Facilities & Services:

   • Basic storage facilities.
   • Fueling and minor repair services available.
   • Administrative and customs offices for handling port entries and shipping documents.
   • Limited warehousing options.

5. Connectivity:

   • Road connections to Kilwa town and surrounding areas.
   • Limited public transport services.
   • Local ferry services connecting to nearby islands and coastal locations.

6. Operational Information:

   • Port operates on a smaller scale and does not handle high volumes of commercial cargo.
   • Significant emphasis on fishing, small-scale trade, and passenger transport.
   • Active involvement in tourism due to proximity to historical and cultural sites.

7. Navigation Aids:

   • Basic navigational aids for safe entry and departure of vessels.
   • Tidal and weather conditions monitoring.

8. Customs and Immigration:

   • Operational customs office for processing cargos and passengers.
   • Immigration services for passenger clearance, especially for international tourists and visitors.

9. Security:

   • Port security provided by local authorities.
   • Routine checks and surveillance for safety and security compliance.

10. Environmental Considerations:

    • Efforts to maintain environmental standards due to proximity to historical sites and natural marine habitats.
    • Regulations in place to manage pollution and conserve coastal and marine ecosystems.

11. Future Developments:

    • Potential plans for expansion and modernization to improve infrastructure and increase operational capacity.
    • Focus on enhancing connectivity to boost tourism and local economic activities.

Summary:

Kilwa Masoko Marine Port is a modest but vital port serving the Kilwa district, primarily utilized for fishing, small-scale trade, and tourism. Due to its strategic location near historical sites, it attracts a steady influx of visitors while providing basic maritime services. Any potential vessel operators or tourists should coordinate with local authorities to get the most current information on port conditions, operational details, and entry requirements.

For detailed and up-to-date information, contacting the port's administrative office or the Tanzanian Ports Authority (TPA) is recommended.