Zanzibar shifts RoRo cargo operations to Maruhubi as ferry terminal nears full transition
Zanzibar Ferry Development Company Limited (ZF DevCo), in collaboration with Zanzibar Ports Corporation (ZPC), today announced the final operational phase before full transition of Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) operations to the new Maruhubi Ferry Terminal. Effective 18 July 2026, all Landing Craft (LCT) and RoRo cargo operations will be handled exclusively at Maruhubi Ferry Terminal, while the full transition of passenger, vehicle and cargo (RoPax) services is expected to be completed by August 2026. The transition forms part of Zanzibar's ongoing efforts to modernise its maritime transport infrastructure, improve operational efficiency, enhance passenger experience and support economic growth.
ZF Developing Company Limited (ZF DevCo), in collaboration with the Zanzibar Ports Corporation (ZPC), is pleased to announce the final operation phase in the transition of Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) operations to the new Maruhubi Ferry Terminal, marking another significant milestone in the modernization of Zanzibar's maritime transport infrastructure.
Following successful operational trials that commenced in April 2026 and the phased relocation of Landing Craft (LCT) vessels from 4 May 2026, the new terminal has demonstrated substantial improvements in operational efficiency. Vessel turnaround times have improved by approximately 70 percent compared to previous operations at Malindi Ferry Terminal, while operational enhancements implemented during the trial period and live operations have positioned the terminal for full-scale operations.
Effective 18 July 2026, the final operational phase of the transition will commence, with all LCTs and RoRo cargo operations being handled exclusively at Maruhubi Ferry Terminal. During a short interim period, RoRo passengers will continue to board and disembark at Malindi Ferry Terminal.
It is expected that by August 2026, all passenger, vehicle and cargo operations will transition to Maruhubi, completing the full migration of RoRo and RoPax services.
This milestone brings the transition programme into its final stages, delivering a modern ferry terminal designed to improve efficiency, safety and customer experience. The Phase 1A facility features enhanced cargo handling capabilities, modern passenger amenities, dedicated vehicle marshalling areas and advanced safety and security systems to support Zanzibar's growing trade, tourism and inter-island connectivity.
The project supports the Government of Zanzibar's vision of developing world-class transport infrastructure under the leadership of His Excellency Dr. Hussein Ali Mwinyi, President of Zanzibar and Chairman of the Revolutionary Council, strengthening the islands' position as a regional gateway for commerce and tourism.
Statement from the Managing Director, ZF DevCo
"The transition to Maruhubi Ferry Terminal represents a major milestone in the transformation of Zanzibar's maritime transport sector. It will decongest Malindi and create room for road infrastructure improvements and increased terminal capacity. We appreciate the cooperation of Zanzibar Ports Corporation (ZPC), Zanzibar Maritime Authority (ZMA), SHIPCO, vessel operators, Government institutions, shipping agents and all stakeholders throughout this carefully managed transition."
"We therefore invite all maritime stakeholders, the business community, importers and exporters to begin using Maruhubi Ferry Terminal for all cargo movements to and from Zanzibar."
ZF DevCo and ZPC remain committed to ensuring a safe and seamless transition with minimal disruption to passengers, transport operators and businesses. Stakeholders are encouraged to follow official communication channels for updates on vessel schedules, terminal access routes and operational procedures as the transition progresses.