Ship Registration in Tanzania: Current Status and Its Challenges

Abstract

The United Republic of Tanzania is maritime state that is engaged in ship registration. Currently, the country maintains a close registry together with an open registry of ships. As a flag state, Tanzania is responsible to effect control over the ships under its registries in accordance with provisions of internationally accepted standards. It seems that the country is not doing well in as far as the maintenance of the open registry is concerned. This paper examined the legal and institutional framework for registration of ships in Tanzania. Dual maritime legislation and un-coordinated authorities seem to be among reasons for poor performance in registration of ships. In addition to that, unknown place of maritime affair in the country and slow reaction to the ratification/adoption of relevant international instruments contributes to poor performance of the flag state. It is recommended that deliberate efforts should be made to establish a comprehensive maritime policy; harmonize legislations and practices; and equip all involved actors with required maritime knowledge for a successful maritime venture.