DP World Dar es Salaam has recorded its best vessel performance to date, cutting cargo discharge times by more than 90% at the Port of Dar es Salaam. The achievement marks a significant milestone in the port’s transformation since DP World began operating the terminal in April 2024.
Under its 30 year concession, DP World continues to invest in upgrading and expanding the port to strengthen Tanzania’s long-term trade and logistics capacity.
The company has introduced modern roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) operations, allowing the port to handle larger and more complex vessels more safely. The new system also lowers supply chain costs while improving trade competitiveness and supporting economic growth.
The changes have reduced cargo discharge times for similar shipments from more than 300 hours to less than 28 hours, setting a new standard for operational efficiency at the port.
The port also reached another milestone in the first quarter with the arrival of M/V RAMHAN. Measuring 240 metres in length, it is the longest vessel ever to berth at the Port of Dar es Salaam. The ship, which can carry up to 7,790 vehicles, discharged 779 car equivalent units (CEUs), mainly heavy-duty vehicles, in just over 27 hours.
Martin Jacob, CEO of DP World Tanzania, said the company has transformed cargo handling at the Port of Dar es Salaam over the past two years. He noted that faster turnaround times, greater capacity and the ability to accommodate larger vessels are strengthening Tanzania’s role as a regional trade gateway while creating value for customers, businesses and the wider economy.
Working with the Tanzania Ports Authority, DP World has transitioned to handling cargo through Pure Car and Truck Carriers (PCTC). The move has made the discharge of heavy-duty vehicles faster, safer and more efficient than traditional general cargo operations. It has also improved performance across different cargo categories and reinforced Dar es Salaam’s position as a leading trade hub in East Africa.
The transformation has delivered several key results, including a reduction of more than 90% in cargo discharge times, from over 300 hours to less than 28 hours. The port has also successfully handled its longest vessel at 240 metres, introduced PCTC operations to improve speed and safety, reduced logistics costs to support trade and economic growth, and created employment for more than 2,900 Tanzanians while providing ongoing operational and safety training.
To meet growing cargo volumes and accommodate larger vessels, DP World continues to invest in workforce development and port safety. More than 2,900 Tanzanians work at the terminal, with employees receiving internationally recognised certifications and specialised training in operations and emergency response to ensure safe and efficient port operations.
Mohammed Akoojee, CEO and Managing Director of DP World Africa, said the company’s continued investment reflects its long-term commitment to Africa’s economic growth and stronger integration into global trade. He added that DP World’s partnership with the Tanzania Ports Authority is modernising port infrastructure, improving regional connectivity, reducing trade barriers and creating lasting economic opportunities.
source: maritimeafrica
African Maritime Council