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DP World says it has reduced cargo discharge times by more than 90 percent at the Port of Dar es Salaam, underscoring operational improvements made since the global logistics company took over management of part of the port under a 30-year concession in April 2024.
The company said cargo discharge time for comparable shipments has fallen from more than 300 hours to less than 28 hours following investments in equipment, operational systems and modern roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) cargo handling.
The improvement comes as DP World and the Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA) continue efforts to position Dar es Salaam as a key maritime gateway for Tanzania and neighbouring landlocked countries.
The terminal also recorded a milestone earlier this year with the arrival of M/V RAMHAN, the longest vessel ever to dock at the Port of Dar es Salaam.
Measuring 240 metres in length, the vessel has capacity to carry up to 7,790 vehicles and discharged 779 car equivalent units (CEUs), mainly heavy-duty vehicles, in just over 27 hours.
DP World Africa Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Mohammed Akoojee, said the company's continued investment reflects its long-term commitment to improving trade infrastructure across the continent.
"Our continued investment in the Port of Dar es Salaam reflects DP World's long-term commitment to Africa's economic growth and integration into global trade networks. Through our partnership with the Tanzania Ports Authority, we are modernising critical infrastructure while enabling regional integration, reducing trade barriers and creating sustainable economic opportunities," he said.
DP World Tanzania Chief Executive Officer Martin Jacob said operational changes implemented over the past two years have significantly improved cargo movement through the port.
"Faster turnaround, higher capacity and the ability to handle larger, more complex vessels are strengthening Tanzania's position as a regional trade gateway while delivering benefits for customers, businesses and the wider economy," he said.
According to the company, the introduction of Pure Car and Truck Carrier (PCTC) operations, implemented in collaboration with TPA, has improved the handling of heavy-duty vehicles by replacing conventional general cargo operations with specialised vehicle carriers.
DP World said the operational changes have contributed to shorter vessel turnaround times, improved safety and lower logistics costs, factors expected to enhance trade competitiveness and support economic growth.
The company added that it currently employs more than 2,900 Tanzanians at the terminal and continues to invest in workforce development through internationally recognised operational, safety and emergency response training programmes.
DP World began operating the multi-purpose terminal at the Port of Dar es Salaam in April 2024 under a 30-year concession agreement signed with the Tanzania Ports Authority, with the aim of expanding port capacity and improving efficiency to accommodate growing regional trade volumes.
