ZCL boosts cargo capacity with new equipment at Dar Port

DAR ES SALAAM: AS cargo volumes continue to rise at the Port of Dar es Salaam, Zambia Cargo and Logistics Limited (ZCL) has boosted its operational capacity by commissioning a new cargo-handling machine worth 1.2bn/-.

The state-of-the-art reach stacker is expected to accelerate container handling, reduce turnaround time and ease the movement of transit cargo through the busy port.

According to a Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA) report, the Port of Dar es Salaam handled 8.5 million metric tonnes in the first quarter of the 2025/2026 financial year, reflecting sustained growth driven by increased regional demand and improved operational efficiency.

Speaking during the commissioning ceremony in Dar es Salaam, Deputy Minister for Transport, David Kihenzile, said the development comes at a time when the port’s operational performance continues to improve, reinforcing its position as a preferred gateway for Zambia and other neighbouring countries.

ALSO READ: Peace dividend must be protected

“Tanzania is proud to witness this progress within its logistics ecosystem. It demonstrates the confidence regional partners continue to place in our infrastructure and regulatory environment,” he said.

Mr Kihenzile said the new equipment aligns with government efforts to modernise ports and enhance cargo-handling efficiency across key gateways.

The government commended ZCL for its strong performance over the past four years, noting that service volumes had increased from 10,000 TEUs in 2020/21 to over 50,000 TEUs by September 2025.

Zambia’s Permanent Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Mr Fredrick Mwalusaka, described the commissioning as a milestone in the longstanding partnership between Zambia and Tanzania.

“Modern equipment strengthens logistics capacity and deepens economic ties between our two countries,” he said.

ZCL Chief Executive Officer, Mr Vyonsi Manda, said the new reach stacker will raise the company’s handling capacity to 70,000 TEUs annually, moving closer to its 15-year target of 100,000 TEUs at Mukuba Depot in Kurasini, Dar es Salaam.

He acknowledged support from Tanzanian institutions, including TPA, TRA and ZASAC, as well as customers and ZCL staff.