DP World Dar es Salaam has achieved a major operational milestone by reducing cargo discharge times by more than 90% and delivering record vessel performance at the Port of Dar es Salaam, underscoring the transformation of the terminal since the company took over operations in April 2024.
Operating under a 30-year concession, DP World has been investing in the modernization and expansion of the port to strengthen Tanzania’s position as a key trade gateway for East Africa.
A major step in this transformation has been the transition to modern roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) operations, allowing the port to safely handle larger and more complex vessels while improving cargo handling efficiency, lowering supply chain costs and boosting regional trade competitiveness.
The operational improvements have reduced cargo discharge time for comparable shipments from more than 300 hours to less than 28 hours, setting a new benchmark for efficiency at the port.
The port also recorded another milestone in the first quarter with the arrival of M/V RAMHAN, the longest vessel ever to call at the Port of Dar es Salaam. Measuring 240 metres in length overall (LOA) and capable of carrying up to 7,790 vehicles, the vessel discharged 779 Car Equivalent Units (CEUs)—primarily heavy-duty vehicles—in just over 27 hours.
Martin Jacob, CEO, Tanzania, DP World, said the company has fundamentally transformed cargo movement at the port over the past two years.
“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,” he said.
The shift to handling cargo through Pure Car and Truck Carriers (PCTCs), implemented in partnership with the Tanzania Ports Authority, has significantly enhanced the speed, safety and efficiency of handling heavy-duty vehicle imports. The move away from conventional general cargo operations has improved productivity across multiple cargo categories and reinforced Dar es Salaam’s competitiveness as a regional logistics hub.
DP World said the enhanced operational performance is expected to reduce logistics costs, improve productivity and contribute to Tanzania’s economic growth by facilitating faster and more reliable trade flows.
Alongside infrastructure upgrades, the company has continued investing in workforce development and safety. More than 2,900 Tanzanians are currently employed at the terminal, with personnel receiving internationally recognized operational certifications and specialized emergency response and safety training.
Mohammed Akoojee, CEO and Managing Director of DP World Africa, said the company’s continued investments demonstrate its long-term commitment to Africa’s economic development.
“Through our partnership with the Tanzania Ports Authority, we are not only modernising critical infrastructure but also enabling regional integration, reducing trade barriers and creating sustainable economic opportunities,” he said.
The latest achievements further strengthen DP World’s role in transforming the Port of Dar es Salaam into one of East Africa’s most efficient and strategically important maritime gateways.
