Port key investments yield milestones
DODOMA: THE Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA) has stated that port investments made during President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s four-year tenure have achieved major milestones, including creating 779 direct employment opportunities within nine months.
TPA Director General Plasduce Mbossa made the revelation while addressing journalists on the significant achievements in the maritime sector under President Samia’s leadership.
The event, attended by journalists and stakeholders, highlighted the government’s commitment to enhancing port infrastructure and boosting economic growth.
According to Mr Mbossa, between April 2024 and January 2025, a total of 779 Tanzanian citizens with various professional backgrounds secured employment in companies operating departments of the Dar es Salaam Port.
Of these, 299 Tanzanians were employed by DP World Dar es Salaam, while 480 others were hired by TAEGTL.
Mr Mbossa further emphasised the critical role of ports in Tanzania’s economy.
“Under President Samia’s administration, we have made remarkable strides in modernising our ports, which are vital for trade and commerce in the region,” he stated.
He reported that revenue collected by TPA between July 2023 and June 2024 stood at 1.4tri/-. Economic reports indicate that the maritime sector continues to contribute between 38 and 40 per cent of all revenue collected by the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA).
“Additionally, TRA reports show that revenue from customs levies has increased by 18 per cent, rising from an average of 850bn/- per month to 1tri/- ,” he said.
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TPA has made substantial investments in upgrading port facilities nationwide.
The Dar es Salaam Port, Tanzania’s largest seaport, has expanded its container terminal, increasing its capacity to accommodate larger vessels and more cargo.
According to Mr Mbossa, container traffic through Tanzania’s ports has grown by an average of 15.23 per cent per year, rising from 20.78 million tonnes in 2021/22 to 27.55 million tonnes.
Additionally, TPA has opened offices in landlinked countries to expand business opportunities.
These offices are located in Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo (Lubumbashi and Kolwezi), Zambia, Burundi, Rwanda, Malawi and Zimbabwe.
Mr Mbossa also noted that cargo handled for neighbouring countries using the Dar es Salaam Port has increased by an average of 8.5 per cent per year, from 7.8 million tonnes in 2021/22 to about 9.2 million tonnes in 2023/24.
The TPA has implemented a digital platform to streamline port operations and reduce vessel turnaround times. This initiative has significantly improved efficiency, with reports indicating a 30 per cent reduction in cargo clearance times since its launch.
Mr Mbossa reiterated TPA’s commitment to supporting President Samia’s vision for a prosperous Tanzania.
“We are dedicated to ensuring that our ports not only meet today’s demands but are also prepared for the challenges of tomorrow,” he said.
The achievements outlined by TPA reflect a broader trend of growth and development in Tanzania under President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s administration, as the country continues to position itself as a key player in the East African maritime sector.
