The MV Amu Jameel container ship has successfully docked at Malindi Port in Kenya marking an end to delayed transshipment of goods to Zanzibar. The
The MV Amu Jameel container ship has successfully docked at Malindi Port in Kenya marking an end to delayed transshipment of goods to Zanzibar.
The ship, owned by Kenya’s Lamu Shipping Limited, was warmly received in a celebratory event led by Zanzibar’s Minister of State in the President’s Office (Labour, Economy, and Investments), Mr Sharif Ali Sharif.
Steady flow of goods
The vessel carried 600+ containers of essential goods, addressed past delays that caused shortages and price hikes. Minister Sharif Ali Sharif praised the initiative and highlighted tax exemptions to keep prices stable. The new direct transshipment route from Mombasa will reduce cargo delays, ensuring a steady flow of essential goods, especially as Ramadan approaches.
“Our cargo from China and the Middle East is first offloaded in Mombasa, but due to a lack of reliable trans- shipment, it often takes weeks or even months to reach Zanzibar,” explained Mr Sharif Ali Sharif.
This development strengthens Zanzibar’s goal of becoming a regional transshipment hub, benefiting both businesses and consumers. Ongoing development at Fumba, Shumba, and Wete ports aims to boost efficiency and trade. The Lamu Shipping Ltd. plans to expand its fleet from three to five ships in the next three years, enhancing connectivity between China, the Middle East, and East Africa.