DMTA College – The Answer to the Blue Economy

Adeladius Makwega – Mwanza

Mwanakwetu has long had a deep desire to gain an in-depth understanding of maritime training in Tanzania. He has always had many questions about this profession, and whenever he sees a ship—whether on the lake or the ocean—countless questions come to mind.

Fortunately, he later learned about the Dar es Salaam Maritime Training Academy (DMTA College), the only private maritime training institution in Tanzania. So, he traveled from Musoma to Mwanza and then from Mwanza to Dar es Salaam to see for himself and learn more about this private institution offering maritime education.

Eager to understand maritime education, he arrived at Uhuru Street / Clock Tower, Plot #2035, Block 155, NHC Building, 3rd Floor Room 304, and then the 4th Floor Room 404.

He was warmly received by the leadership of this private institution, which offers certificate-level maritime education. There, he began receiving detailed explanations step by step, with great hospitality. Engineer Lameck Sondo, one of the institution’s leaders, hosted him:

“First, welcome and sorry for your long journey. You are warmly welcomed to DMTA College. Here, we have students from several countries and all regions of Tanzania, including seven students from the Lake Zone. Our institution is dedicated to shaping the future of maritime professionals through internationally recognized training, practical learning, and expertise driven by industry needs. With strong commitment to safety, quality, and professionalism, we provide essential training to aspiring seafarers, ensuring they gain the skills and knowledge needed to succeed both nationally and internationally.”

Engineer Sondo also mentioned that training includes Basic First Aid, explaining that all students learn essential first aid techniques tailored for maritime environments to ensure they can provide immediate assistance during emergencies.

The women of DMTA College also warmly welcomed Mwanakwetu, including Ms. Dorine Songoro, the registrar, who noted that maritime careers are currently lucrative. She explained that even the lowest-ranking seafarer earns about $450, which can significantly support a young Tanzanian. Engineer Sondo added:

“Survival techniques equip our students with essential skills to endure emergency situations at sea.”

As Mwanakwetu headed to the fourth floor, the sound of a ship horn—‘pooooo!’—was heard. Engineer Sondo explained that it was a ship entering the harbor. From a distance, Mwanakwetu was shown the Indian Ocean, with ships arriving and others anchoring. This confirmed to him that the environment was ideal for maritime training.

He remarked that he would bring his child to study at the institution so they could ‘become someone in life.’ Ms. Songoro laughed and said the child is already someone, but at DMTA they would provide maritime skills and knowledge to help them perform effectively in this profession. She added:

“Do you see maritime students in training?”

Mwanakwetu replied yes. She went on to mention other training programs, including Fire Prevention and Firefighting, explaining that students are taught how to prevent, control, and fight fires onboard vessels, ensuring proper safety procedures are understood and implemented.

She concluded by highlighting Personal Safety and Social Responsibility training, emphasizing the importance of personal safety and responsible behavior at work, fostering a culture of safety and accountability. She also noted that the maritime sector significantly contributes to Tanzania’s economy through the Blue Economy, cargo transportation, and job creation. Maritime work is an important source of foreign income for many countries.

“As DMTA College, we support efforts to expand access to international-standard training to enable more young men and women to secure employment on both national and international ships. Currently, Tanzanians are investing more in strengthening Blue Economy training and maritime professionalism, as demonstrated by the establishment of DMTA College.”

Ms. Songoro later shared their contact details:

“Phone: +255 765 616 129 / +255 766 288 288Email: info@dmta.ac.tzP.O. Box 3625, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.”

Mwanakwetu confirms that DMTA College is very welcoming. If you call any of the listed numbers, you can directly reach Ms. Dorine Songoro, who will answer all your questions about the college and maritime studies.

After the discussion, Mwanakwetu toured the institution, observing classrooms, the library, halls, and the entire learning environment, all of which were well-suited and attractive for maritime education. He then said goodbye and began his journey back from Dar es Salaam to Mwanza and onward to Musoma. Along the way, he decided to write this article just as you are reading it now.

So, what does Mwanakwetu say today?

This is his journey to DMTA College, and he felt he should share it openly with you—especially young people, parents, and guardians—to encourage you to seize the opportunity to study maritime courses. Opportunities are abundant—visit the institution, explore their website, or call them to learn more and take advantage of the many opportunities in maritime careers.