Tanzania Ports Authority Launches Daily Cargo Train Service to Enhance Port Efficiency
Dar es Salaam is set to experience a significant transformation in cargo logistics with the introduction of a daily cargo train service from the port to the Kwala Inland Container Depot (ICD). This strategic initiative aims to address port congestion and streamline cargo movement, particularly for goods in transit to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The new rail service operates daily on the Meter Gauge Railway (MGR), specifically designed to handle DRC-bound cargo. Since March, the service has been running consistently, providing a reliable transportation solution for regional trade.
Key benefits of the new cargo train service include:
– Reduced port congestion
– Faster cargo clearance for international traders
– 60-day grace period for cargo collection
– Improved logistics for landlocked countries
The initiative responds to historical challenges of cargo delays during political instabilities in the DRC. By establishing a dedicated train route to Kwala ICD, traders now have a more flexible and efficient cargo management option.
Port authorities have also reported significant improvements in overall port operations, with container vessel delays dramatically reduced from 30 days to just three. This enhancement signals a new era of efficiency in Tanzania’s maritime logistics sector.
The service is part of a broader strategy to optimize trade routes and support regional economic integration, with plans to expand services to other landlocked countries in the future.
