DAR ES SALAAM – The Tanzanian government has refuted reports circulating on social media claiming the sale of Bagamoyo Port to the Saudi Arabia Development and Investment Company (SADC). The speculation arose after photos surfaced online showing Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA) Director General Plasduce Mbossa with a Saudi delegation, leading to assumptions of an official handover. Adding to the confusion, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) quoted a Saudi official stating that Tanzania had granted SADC ownership and operational rights to the port.

However, a high-ranking Tanzanian government official, speaking anonymously to the Daily News, dismissed these claims as false. "The information is false," the official stated. "While TPA officials and some government ministers attended the meeting with investors from Saudi Arabia, the discussion was about a joint business plan, not the transfer of port ownership." The source emphasized that no formal agreement has been signed. "We want to inform the public that the images being shared were taken during investment discussions, not a handover ceremony. Any official signing will only take place if an agreement is reached in accordance with legal procedures," the official clarified.

Saudi Arabia's interest in Bagamoyo Port is reportedly part of its East Gateway Project, an initiative aimed at solidifying its position as a global trade hub and expanding its African investments. During the Saudi Arabia-Tanzania Business Forum, supported by the Saudi Chamber of Commerce, officials from both nations explored various investment opportunities, including development projects in Zanzibar. This aligns with Saudi Arabia's broader strategy to increase its presence in African markets.

As of now, neither the Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA) nor the Ministry of Works, Transport, Planning, and Investment has released an official statement regarding the matter.

[ⓒ Global Economic Times. 무단전재-재배포 금지]