The ruling party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), has hailed the ongoing improvements at the Dar es Salaam Port, noting that the reforms have significantly increased government revenue, enhanced cargo handling efficiency, and strengthened Tanzania’s position as a regional trade hub.
Speaking in Masasi District, Mtwara Region, during his ten-day tour of Lindi and Mtwara, CCM Secretary for Ideology, Publicity, and Training, Amos Makalla, said the improvements carried out through the port’s partnership with DP World have transformed port operations.
“Over TZS 432 billion has been invested in modern equipment and digital systems,” said Makalla. “This has reduced the number of days containers stay at the port from 40 to as few as 0 to 3 days. It’s a milestone that shows what strategic investment can achieve.”
He noted that the port now handles over one million containers per year a new record that cements its status as one of the best-performing ports in East and Central Africa.
“We are now seeing faster cargo clearance, less congestion, and increased customer satisfaction. This is how a modern economy works,” he added.
Makalla was responding to recent criticism from CHADEMA Deputy Chairperson John Heche, who alleged that the government had failed to manage the port effectively and had surrendered control to private investors.
“The person making that claim clearly doesn’t understand how economics and trade work,” Makalla said. “What we’re doing is leveraging investment to boost efficiency, increase revenue, and benefit our people. We’ve turned Dar es Salaam Port into a strategic economic engine.”
Beyond the port, Makalla also emphasized the importance of coal as both an energy resource and an economic opportunity. “Coal is not just for export it’s powering our own industries too,” he said.
“It provides us with the foreign exchange we need to build schools, roads, and water projects across the country.”
He explained that the demand for coal is high both locally and internationally. “Industries like Wazo Cement, Tanga Cement, and Dangote depend on coal. And with southern Tanzania being rich in this resource, we have a competitive advantage,” said Makalla.
He concluded by urging political leaders and the public to focus on facts and national interests. “Let’s not politicize development. Our focus should be on results and the results at the port and in the mining sector speak for themselves,” he said.