Dar Port reinvents Tanzania as Africa’s trade powerhouse as trade booms

DAR ES SALAAM: THE transformation of the Port of Dar es Salaam is rapidly reshaping Tanzania’s trade and logistics landscape, positioning the country more firmly within global supply chains, while delivering tangible economic and employment benefits at home.

Speaking during a recent editors’ tour of the port, DP World Tanzania Head of External Relations Elitunu Mallamia, underscored the scale of the shift, noting that the changes underway are part of a broader global network. At the centre of this transformation is DP World, a logistics powerhouse whose operations facilitate more than ten per cent of world trade, span 83 countries and include over 295 business units across six continents.

“We are not just operating a port; we are connecting Tanzania to the world,” Mallamia said, reinforcing the strategic importance of the investment. The agreement granting DP World the mandate to operate and modernise the port was anchored on a clear objective: to optimise operations and enhance transport and logistics services within Tanzania and across neighbouring subSaharan African countries.

As a key maritime gateway, the port links inland markets through an expanding network of roads, highways, railways and dedicated freight corridors, enabling smoother cargo movement and strengthening regional trade integration. Since taking over operations, DP World has rolled out a wide-ranging modernisation programme combining infrastructure upgrades, advanced equipment and digital systems. According to Mallamia, these changes go beyond routine improvements.

“This is about aligning Dar es Salaam with global standards and ensuring it can meet growing demand efficiently and safely,” she explained. One of the most visible aspects of the transformation is the introduction of modern cargo-handling equipment. Twenty terminal tractors and 31 trailers were deployed in April 2024, significantly improving cargo mobility within the port. In addition, eight rubber-tyred gantry cranes are being installed in phases, with four expected by May 2026 and the remaining four by June 2026.

These cranes are critical for faster and more efficient handling of containerised cargo. Infrastructure development has moved in parallel. Phase One investments included extensive yard rehabilitation, installation of new entry and exit gates and the deployment of perimeter fencing and access control systems supported by CCTV surveillance. These upgrades have strengthened both operational efficiency and security, ensuring a more controlled and reliable cargo handling environment.

Equally transformative has been the integration of digital technologies. Automation systems at the gates, remote tally mechanisms and handheld devices have replaced many manual processes. This has enabled faster documentation, real-time cargo tracking and improved coordination across operations.

Mallamia noted that such systems are essential in reducing delays and eliminating inefficiencies that previously slowed down port activities. The results are already evident. Safety has improved significantly, with a reduction in reported incidents reflecting better systems and enhanced worker training. Productivity in roll-on/roll-off cargo handling has increased by 15 per cent, demonstrating gains in operational efficiency. Perhaps the most striking improvement is in vessel turnaround time.

In April 2024, up to 35 ships were waiting to berth at the port. By April 2026, that number had dropped to 17, effectively cutting congestion in half. Faster turnaround times reduce costs for shipping lines and make the port more competitive in attracting international carriers. Cargo throughput has also surged. In the 2025 financial year compared to 2024, container volumes increased by 55 per cent, roll-on/roll-off cargo by 20 per cent, general cargo by 25 per cent and dry bulk by 22 per cent.

These gains reflect both increased capacity and growing confidence among port users. Record-breaking milestones further illustrate this progress. In March 2026, Terminal 1 handled its highest-ever container volume of 43,803 TEUs, while roll-on/roll-off traffic reached a historic 30,442 units. The port also received the MSC STELLA, a 305-metre-long vessel the largest container ship ever handled at Dar es Salaam.

“These milestones show that the port is now capable of handling larger vessels and higher volumes with efficiency,” Mallamia said.

Beyond operational success, the economic impact has been substantial. Improved efficiency in cargo handling has significantly boosted revenue collection by the Tanzania Revenue Authority. Average monthly tax collections have risen sharply from approximately 800 million shillings to over one trillion shillings, reflecting both increased trade volumes and improved systems.

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Crucially, the modernisation has translated into job creation and skills development for Tanzanians. The introduction of advanced machinery and digital platforms has required targeted training programmes, equipping local workers with technical expertise in logistics, equipment operation and port management.

“We are seeing more Tanzanians gaining skills that match global standards,” Mallamia noted, adding that capacity building is a central pillar of the transformation. Employment opportunities have expanded not only within the port but also across the broader logistics value chain. Increased cargo volumes have stimulated demand for transport services, warehousing, freight forwarding and related sectors.

This ripple effect is supporting livelihoods and creating new economic opportunities across the country. The improvements have also enhanced working conditions. Modern equipment, better safety systems and more organised workflows have created a safer and more efficient environment for workers, reducing risks and boosting productivity. At the regional level, the port’s enhanced performance strengthens Tanzania’s role as a trade hub for landlocked neighbouring countries.

Efficient access to seaports is critical for these economies and the improved reliability and capacity of Dar es Salaam provide a competitive edge in attracting transit cargo. The transformation reflects a deliberate integration of global expertise with local capacity. By leveraging its international experience, DP World has introduced best practices tailored to the Tanzanian context, ensuring that improvements are both effective and sustainable.

As global trade continues to evolve, efficiency, speed and reliability are becoming increasingly important. The developments at the Port of Dar es Salaam demonstrate how targeted investment, modern technology and skilled human capital can drive meaningful progress.

What is emerging is more than just an upgraded port. It is a modern logistics hub capable of supporting economic growth, regional connectivity and employment creation. In this new phase, the Port of Dar es Salaam stands as a powerful example of how strategic partnerships and focused reforms can transform critical infrastructure into a driver of national development.