DP World signs 30-year concession to operate Dar es Salaam port

DP World, one of the biggest infrastructure giants worldwide, has recently made waves by securing a 30-year concession with the Tanzanian Port Authority to operate the Dar es Salaam port. This significant achievement marks a pivotal moment in the advancement of port operations and economic development in the region. Following a competitive process that involved key players such as Oman, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi, DP World emerged victorious, showcasing their expertise and track record in developing state-of-the-art ports and terminals across 78 markets globally. In an exclusive interview with CNBC Africa, Mohammad Akoojee, CEO and MD of DP World, shed light on the factors that led to this groundbreaking concession. When questioned about the competitive landscape and what set DP World apart, Akoojee attributed the success to the company's stellar reputation and proven track record in port development. Highlighting their commitment to investing in economic free zones and supporting overall economic growth, Akoojee emphasized DP World's dedication to creating value-added services and enhancing connectivity to drive trade flow in and out of the region. One key aspect of DP World's strategy for the Dar es Salaam port is the initial investment of $250 million to kickstart development efforts. This investment sets the stage for further enhancements, including improving connectivity with East African markets and Southern Africa. By leveraging their expertise and capital investment, DP World aims to streamline logistics and supply chains, ultimately reducing costs and fostering economic growth in Tanzania. Furthermore, DP World is keen on implementing temperature-controlled storage and developing specialized warehousing facilities at the port. These initiatives align with the company's focus on providing value-added services that cater to specific cargo needs, such as cold storage for pharmaceutical and agricultural products. By addressing the infrastructure gaps in Africa and enhancing storage capabilities, DP World aims to boost efficiency and reduce wastage in the supply chain. Looking ahead, Akoojee expressed optimism about the partnership with the Tanzanian Port Authority and reiterated DP World's commitment to driving economic development in the region. With a strategic vision to enhance port operations, invest in infrastructure, and promote economic growth, DP World aims to revolutionize the port sector in Tanzania and create a ripple effect of benefits for the local economy. In closing, Akoojee emphasized the organization's broader mission of reducing the cost of doing business in Africa by optimizing supply chain processes and enhancing connectivity. By leveraging their global experience, capital investments, and focus on economic growth, DP World is poised to make a significant impact on the port operations and economic landscape of Tanzania.