Port of Dar es Salaam discharge times drop 90% under DP World
The vessel discharged 779 car equivalent units, predominantly heavy-duty vehicles, in just over 27 hours.
TANZANIA – DP World has cut cargo discharge times by more than 90% at the Port of Dar es Salaam since taking over operations in April 2024 under a 30-year concession, reducing discharge time for comparable cargo from over 300 hours to under 28 hours.
The terminal has transitioned to modern RoRo operations, enabling it to handle larger, more complex vessels safely while reducing supply chain costs.
In the first quarter, the port reached another milestone with the arrival of the M/V RAMHAN. At 240 metres in length, it is the longest vessel ever to call at Dar es Salaam, with a capacity for up to 7,790 vehicles.
The vessel discharged 779 car equivalent units, predominantly heavy-duty vehicles, in just over 27 hours.
Operational Transformation and Efficiency Gains
The shift to Pure Car and Truck Carrier operations, implemented in collaboration with the Tanzania Ports Authority, has enabled faster, safer discharge of heavy-duty vehicles, moving the terminal away from general cargo handling and driving performance gains across cargo categories.
Workforce Development and Investment
DP World said more than 2,900 Tanzanians are employed at the terminal, with staff completing internationally recognized certifications and specialized operational and emergency response training to support the port’s expanding operations.
Martin Jacob, CEO of Tanzania at DP World, said: “Over the past two years, we have fundamentally improved how cargo moves through the Port of Dar es Salaam. Faster turnaround, higher capacity and the ability to handle larger, more complex vessels are strengthening Tanzania’s position as a regional trade gateway to East Africa while delivering benefits for customers, businesses and the wider economy.”
Regional Gateway and Long-Term Commitment
Mohammed Akoojee, DP World Africa CEO and MD, stated: “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 Port Authority, we are not only modernizing critical infrastructure, but we are also enabling regional integration, reducing trade barriers, and creating sustainable economic opportunities.“
As DP World continues its 30-year concession, Dar es Salaam is positioned as a premier trade gateway for East Africa, thereby lowering supply chain costs and enhancing regional economic integration.
Ultimately, the long-term partnership with the Tanzania Ports Authority focuses on boosting regional economic integration and enhancing global trade connectivity.
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