DP World, a global port operator, has been awarded the concession to operate and modernize the Dar es Salaam Port in Tanzania. The aim of this partnership is to enhance the port’s efficiency and improve transportation and logistics services throughout Tanzania and its neighboring regions. This project is part of a larger investment plan, with DP World initially investing over $250 million to upgrade the port, and potentially increasing the investment up to $1 billion during the concession period.

The upgraded port will be connected to the sub-Saharan African hinterland through a well-developed network of roads, highways, railways, and dedicated freight corridors and ports. This will facilitate the growing demand for logistics solutions in the region and enhance connectivity between businesses in Tanzania and global markets.

The government of Tanzania has already made significant investments to improve the port’s infrastructure, which has greatly benefited its operations. DP World plans to collaborate with the Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA) and other stakeholders to build on this progress. The goal is to streamline cargo clearing processes and improve cargo planning, thus solidifying Dar es Salaam’s role as the primary maritime gateway for green energy metals from the copper belt in Southern-Central Africa.

One of the key benefits of this partnership will be the improved efficiency of the port, which will attract more shipping lines and larger vessels. This, in turn, will result in lower ocean freight costs for Tanzanian importers and exporters, making trade more economically viable.

DP World also has future plans to further modernize the port. The company is considering investments in temperature-controlled storage facilities to support Tanzania’s agricultural sector. Additionally, there are plans for enhancing rail-linked logistics to improve transportation connectivity. Potential investments in a special economic zone are also being explored, which would boost Tanzania’s presence and impact in the global trade landscape.

Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, expressed his honor in partnering with the Government of Tanzania to revitalize the port of Dar es Salaam. He emphasized that this development will create trade opportunities, drive economic growth, and generate employment, while also improving access to products and services.

Professor Makame Mbarawa, Tanzania’s Minister of Transport, highlighted the importance of this partnership in terms of job creation across various sectors such as transportation, distribution, and supply chain. Notably, the Tanzania Ports Authority will hold a stake in the port concessionaire, ensuring job security for its employees.

This concession agreement marks a significant milestone in leveraging DP World’s expertise to enhance the region’s supply chain and support the economic growth of Tanzania and the wider continent.