Enhancing port efficiency: the case of Dar es Salaam port

The topic of the research is: ENHANCING PORT EFFICIENCY: THE CASE OF DAR ES SALAAM PORT. The main objective of the study to identify the main problems, constraints and challenges facing the port of Dar es Salaam and how these can be resolved to improve port performance. The methodology employed includes literature review, especially through the internet, tailor-made interviews with key port, customs and forwarding and clearing officials, administered questionnaires and data analysis. Key performance indicators designed to include (i) port efficiency, (ii) customs clearance delays, (iii) container handling charges in US4/TEU, and (iv) an “honesty” index which captures any disappearance, misplacement's of the documents at customs, slow movement of documents, flouting the manifest procedures and related malpractices. The findings of the survey suggest that such factors as high port efficiency, shipping frequency, adequate infrastructure, good location, high speed of document processing, good customer care, efficient management of inland container deport, low bureaucracy, short time taken to clear containers, low port charges quick response to port users’ needs and good reputation for cargo safety are the key determinants of port efficiency. It is, therefore, essential that port operators and policy makers give top priority to improve their overall level of efficiency relative to other factors in order to attract more shippers to use the Dar es Salaam port. It is also recommended to increase port efficiency by provide sufficient space within the port terminal area and ICDs to manage the current volume of traffic, improve management of containers in the port, and consistency incentives to the container terminal operator.