DAR ES SALAAM, Dec 7 (NNN-DAILYNEWS) — The expansion of Dar es Salaam Port and improved efficiency in cargo handling continue to yield positive results as global shipping giant Evergreen Line returns to the facility after a decade.
The company introduced a new vessel, Ever Viva, aimed at enhancing trade between Tanzania and Far East countries.
The Ever Viva, a cargo ship with a capacity of 3,110 containers, made its maiden voyage to Tanzania and was inaugurated at the Dar es Salaam Port over the weekend.
Representatives from state agencies highlighted the improved business environment in the country as a key factor contributing to this milestone.
Speaking during the inauguration, Gulf Badr Group (Tanzania) Ltd branch manager, Mohamed Lotfy, said the ship was completed in October this year and made its first trip directly to Tanzania.
According to Lotfy, Gulf Badr Group (Tanzania) Ltd, the Evergreen agent, convinced the global shipping company to return after it was satisfied with the improvements made at the port and the services provided by partners DP World and the Tanzania East Africa Gateway Terminal (TEAGTL).
“We are impressed with the improvements at the port. New players, like DP World, have brought in fresh recruitment, and the performance is remarkable. We thought this was the right time to return to Tanzania to do business and expand the market. Things are promising, and that’s why we are here!” he said.
The manager added that the newly unveiled ship would increase the volume of cargo handled at the Dar es Salaam Port, subsequently boosting business in the country. The Ever Viva is expected to dock at the port once a month, with potential frequency increases to twice a month depending on business demand.
Representing Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA) Director General Plasduce Mbossa, Mussa Biboze noted that the port had set a new milestone by receiving a state-of-the-art ship on its maiden voyage.
He highlighted the port’s improved efficiency, noting that in December last year, 30 ships were waiting to unload. This year, the number has dropped significantly, with only four vessels in the queue.
“As of December 2, 2024, we had only one ship waiting to unload. This shows how efficiency at the port has significantly increased,” he said.
He added that the arrival of the new cargo ship would boost the country’s revenue through increased tax collections and job creation for locals.
On her part, Tanzania Shipping Agencies Corporation (TASAC) Shipping Services Manager, representing Director General Mohamed Malick Salum, said the ship underwent an inspection upon arrival to ensure it met International Maritime Organization (IMO) standards.
She added that the ship would have a multiplier effect on Tanzania’s economy, creating direct employment opportunities and spurring various related services.
Donald Talawa, head of Commercial at TEAGTL, welcomed Gulf Badr Group’s decision to bring back Evergreen Line to Tanzania. As the operator of Terminal II, he assured the agent of improved services and readiness to support the new ship. — NNN-DAILYNEWS
