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Note: Vessel information is updated daily. All times are local port time.
Port Overview
Bukoba Port (TZBKZ) is a strategic maritime facility located on the southwestern shores of Lake Victoria in northwestern Tanzania. Positioned at coordinates -1.34641°N, 31.8155°E, this inland port serves as a critical transportation hub for the Lake Victoria region, facilitating crucial trade connections between Tanzania, Uganda, and Kenya. Despite its inland location, Bukoba Port plays a significant role in regional economic development, supporting both commercial shipping and local maritime commerce.
Geographic Location & Access
Situated on the western shore of Lake Victoria in the Kagera Region, Bukoba Port benefits from a strategic position that connects multiple East African economic zones. The port’s location offers unique advantages for regional trade, with direct access to Lake Victoria’s extensive waterways. The local climate is characterized by tropical conditions, with moderate temperatures and periodic rainfall that can impact maritime operations. Navigation is influenced by the lake’s specific hydrographic conditions, including seasonal water level variations and localized wind patterns.
Port Infrastructure & Facilities
The port features a compact but functional maritime infrastructure designed to support regional trade requirements:
– Berth Configuration: Multiple berthing areas capable of accommodating medium-sized inland vessels
– Cargo Handling Capabilities:
– General cargo terminals
– Limited container handling facilities
– Bulk cargo transfer areas
– Storage Facilities:
– Open and covered storage zones
– Warehousing for agricultural and commercial goods
– Basic logistics support infrastructure
Technical Specifications
– Maximum Draft: 50 meters (theoretical maximum for lake vessels)
– Channel Characteristics:
– Maintained navigational depth
– Periodic dredging to ensure consistent accessibility
– Navigation Aids:
– Basic maritime signaling systems
– Limited but functional navigational support infrastructure
– Pilotage: Mandatory for all commercial vessels
– Tidal Considerations: Minimal tidal influences due to inland lake location
Operational Services
Port services include:
– Cargo handling and stevedoring
– Basic vessel support services
– Customs clearance facilities
– Limited bunkering capabilities
– Essential maritime support infrastructure
– Security screening and documentation processing
Commercial & Economic Aspects
Key commercial characteristics:
– Tariff Structure: Competitive regional pricing
– Intermodal Connections:
– Road links to regional transportation networks
– Limited but functional rail connectivity
– Primary Trade Commodities:
– Agricultural products
– Regional manufactured goods
– Consumer merchandise
– Limited industrial equipment
Strategic Importance
Bukoba Port represents a critical node in Tanzania’s inland maritime infrastructure, offering:
– Regional trade integration
– Economic development for the Lake Victoria basin
– Strategic connectivity for landlocked regional economies
– Potential for expanded maritime logistics capabilities
Competitive Advantages
– Unique inland lake location
– Strategic regional positioning
– Developing infrastructure
– Potential for expanded economic role
– Critical link in East African trade networks
Limitations & Considerations
Potential users should note:
– Limited deep-water capabilities
– Smaller scale compared to maritime ports
– Infrastructure development in progress
– Seasonal operational variations
TZBKZ
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