TANGA: THE Tanzania Port Authority (TPA) has reported an impressive revenue collection of 18bn/- during the first quarter of the 2024/2025 financial year at Tanga Port, largely attributed to the arrival of 11 ships.
Notably, 44.4 per cent of the revenue came from vessels belonging to Sea Front Shipping Services Company, underscoring their significant contribution to the port’s performance.
Briefing reporters on the performance of the terminal and the Customer Service Week celebrations, Tanga Port Manager Masoud Mrisha said Tanga Port’s ability to attract and retain major shipping companies, along with continuous improvements in infrastructure and service levels, has been crucial in achieving these milestones.
Mr Mrisha expressed gratitude to major clients, including Sea Front Shipping Services and to all customers utilising the port.
He emphasised the port’s commitment to strengthening relationships with clients by addressing challenges, ensuring high-quality services and encouraging repeat business.
During the period under review, Tanga Port handled a total of 333,718 tonnes of cargo, exceeding its target of 283,290 tonnes by 17 per cent.
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“This achievement demonstrates our success. Last year, during the corresponding period three-month period, the port handled 200,004 tonnes, highlighting significant growth this year,” Mrisha stated.
Salum Mgaya, a representative from Maersk’s Tanga office, also commented on the improvements carried out at Tanga Port. He noted that enhanced equipment, improved human resources and technological upgrades have led to greater efficiency, allowing ships to dock and be serviced promptly.
“Our ships are now serviced 24/7 and we recently managed to service a large vessel with 1,000 containers within three to four days, thanks to these improvements,” said Mr Mgaya.
Mr Vitalis Mokiwa, a representative from Star Rock Shipping Company, echoed the congratulatory sentiments. He said that their company was initially focusing on oil tankers but it is now handling a variety of cargo ships, including container vessels.
Mr Mokiwa credited the government for the port’s enhancements, particularly the construction of a new pier.
“Previously, ships had to offload cargo away from the pier, resulting in additional costs. Now, with the improved infrastructure, ships can dock directly at the pier, significantly reducing cargo handling expenses,” he noted.