Key oil storage project in Tanzania eyeing progress

As a rotary drilling rig roared to life, a Chinese construction team commenced pile testing operations for a key oil storage tank project at Dar es Salaam Port in Tanzania last week.

Constructed by China Railway Major Bridge Engineering Group (MBEC), the oil storage tank facility is situated just 5.1 kilometers from Nyerere Bridge, another MBEC project, and is a major infrastructure investment by the Tanzania Ports Authority.

Once completed, the facility is expected to reduce the turnaround time for unloading oil ships at Dar es Salaam Port from 12 days to just three days, significantly lowering retail oil prices and meeting the growing demand for petroleum in Tanzania and neighboring regions, said Li Shaoxun, executive deputy manager of the project.

Li added that the project is also expected to help enhance Tanzania's national energy storage capacity, create more job opportunities and finally boost local economic growth.

The project encompasses the design, procurement and construction of 15 oil tanks, including anti-corrosion and insulation work, as well as specialized valve procurement, pipeline installation, fireproof systems, electrical instrumentation, and water supply and drainage systems. It also includes the construction of about 5.5 km of long-distance pipelines and undersea pipelines, he said.

Officially launched on Aug 16, construction of the project is expected to finish by the end of 2026, said the Wuhan, Hubei province-based builder. To ensure timely progress, the construction team has engaged in multiple rounds of discussions with consultants on pile test locations, construction methods, pouring techniques and quality control. Prior to initiating pile testing, the technical team also conducted detailed simulations and discussions, laying a solid foundation for smooth implementation, MBEC said.

Tanzania and China have maintained a close and fruitful economic partnership, with Chinese investments delivering substantial economic benefits and creating abundant employment opportunities in Tanzania, said Ali Mwinyi, envoy of the consulate general of Tanzania in Guangzhou, Guangdong province.

Speaking at the launch ceremony of a Tanzania investment center in Changsha, Hunan province, this month, he added that Tanzania's vibrant, investor-friendly environment and vast market potential welcome more Chinese investments for shared growth opportunities.

Contact the writers at lijiaying@chinadaily.com.cn