The Tanzania Shipping Agencies Corporation (TASAC), today, 9 July 2026, has signed a contract with Mercan Tekne Deniz Araçları Ltd. Şti. of Türkiye for the supply of modern Patrol and Inspection Boats to be deployed at Mtwara Port and Bukoba Port, marking another milestone in the Government's efforts to strengthen maritime safety, security, environmental protection and regulatory oversight.

Speaking during the contract signing ceremony, TASAC Director General, Mr. Mohamed Salum, said the procurement demonstrates the Government's continued commitment, under the leadership of Her Excellency Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of the United Republic of Tanzania, to modernising maritime transport infrastructure and enhancing the country's maritime regulatory capacity.

"The signing of this contract is more than a procurement exercise. It is an important investment towards building a safer, more secure, efficient and sustainable maritime transport system that protects lives and property, facilitates trade and supports Tanzania's Blue Economy agenda," said Mr. Salum.

He noted that the patrol and inspection boats will strengthen TASAC's operational capability by improving maritime inspections, surveillance, enforcement of maritime laws and international conventions, environmental protection, and rapid response to maritime incidents.

Mr. Salum said the selection of Mtwara and Bukoba Ports reflects their strategic importance to national and regional trade. Mtwara Port continues to support economic activities along the Southern Corridor, while Bukoba Port remains a vital gateway for transport and commerce on Lake Victoria and within the East African Community.

Speaking on behalf of Mercan Tekne Deniz Araçları Ltd. Şti., Mr. Buğrahan Biçer, Sales Representative of Mercan Yachting, thanked TASAC for the confidence placed in the company and expressed appreciation for the opportunity to contribute to the development of Tanzania's maritime sector.

Mr. Biçer assured TASAC and reaffirmed the company's commitment to delivering high-quality patrol and inspection boats that fully comply with the agreed technical specifications, international maritime standards, and contractual requirements.