KEY POINTS
- The $15.7 million project targets port optimization, trade facilitation, and urban mobility to enhance Dar es Salaam Port’s efficiency and connectivity.
- Led by TMA, Antwerp, and UN-Habitat, the initiative embraces digitization and infrastructure upgrades to remove trade barriers and improve perishable goods handling.
- Transforming the port into a world-class hub will promote sustainable growth, regional integration, and economic opportunities across East and Central Africa.
Tanzania, along with the European Union, has launched a €15 million($15.7 million) initiative over four years to upgrade the Dar es Salaam Port, an essential center for trade routes in East and Central Africa.
Africa Business Community noted that the initiative, formally initiated on December 11, 2024, at the Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA) Headquarters, seeks to boost trade facilitation, streamline port operations, and improve urban mobility.
A regional trade hub in transition
The Dar es Salaam Port, a crucial entry point for Tanzania and its landlocked neighboring countries, has consistently faced inefficiencies that have hindered its capabilities.
The new initiative aims to tackle these issues via a collaboration involving multiple stakeholders, spearheaded by TradeMark Africa (TMA), the Port of Antwerp, and UN-Habitat, with management assistance from Enabel.
Speaking at the launch, TPA Director General Placid Mbossa emphasized the project’s transformative potential.
“We commend the partnership dedicated to enhancing the performance of the Port of Dar es Salaam. This initiative will deliver interventions to improve operations and efficiency. TPA is committed to its successful implementation,” Mbossa said.
Core focus areas
The initiative is organized around three foundations, encompassing Port Optimization. Spearheaded by the Port of Antwerp, this aspect aims to enhance port operations to facilitate more efficient trade movements.
Trade facilitation, where TMA is leading initiatives to digitize customs procedures, remove obstacles, and enhance infrastructure, especially for perishable items. Around €4.2 million has been designated for this sector.
Similarly, Urban Mobility, with UN-Habitat responsible for improving the transportation of goods and individuals in the port’s surrounding areas to boost overall trade effectiveness.
Significant regional and economic impact
Hans Stausboll, Acting Director Africa, Directorate-General for International Partnerships at the EU, highlighted the broader economic implications of the project.
“This transformative initiative will drive regional trade and economic growth through the Port of Dar es Salaam. It exemplifies the power of partnerships in delivering impactful interventions,” Stausboll said.
Elibariki Shammy, Country Director for TradeMark Africa, echoed this sentiment, noting the project’s potential to reshape the trade ecosystem.
“By addressing barriers and embracing digitization, we aim to unlock the full potential of the Dar and Central Corridors, fostering shared prosperity,” Shammy said.
Strategic vision for East Africa
The initiative represents a significant step towards enhancing regional integration, increasing trade efficiencies, and promoting sustainable economic growth across East Africa.
By tackling persistent barriers and leveraging digital solutions, the project is poised to transform the Dar es Salaam Port into a world-class trade hub.
