THE government has been praised for its major strides in improving Tanzania’s port infrastructure, with lawmakers calling the developments a transformative step for the national economy.

The commendation came at the weekend during an official visit by the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Governance, Constitution and Legal Affairs to Dar es Salaam Port, the country’s busiest and most economically significant harbour.

Speaking during the tour, committee Chairman Dr. Joseph Mhagama described the ongoing upgrades and operational improvements at the port as a “game-changer” for both domestic and international trade.

“Today’s visit is part of our regular oversight responsibilities and I must say, what we have seen today is not theoretical—it is visible progress. These are real, tangible results on the ground,” he said.

He noted that the improved port infrastructure, coupled with enhanced efficiency in cargo handling and customs processing, has significantly increased revenue for the government. According to data from the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA), the port currently contributes approximately 30 percent of the agency’s total revenue collection.

“If we continue to invest in this port, Dar es Salaam won’t just remain a trade hub—it will become a key tourism and logistics gateway for Tanzania and the broader East African region,” he added.

However, the committee also identified some persistent challenges, particularly legal and regulatory overlaps that affect the performance of the Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA). Dr. Mhagama pledged that his committee would engage with the Ministry of Transport and other relevant institutions to address such bottlenecks and ensure more seamless operations.

Transport Deputy Minister, David Kihenzile, thanked the committee for its constructive oversight and affirmed the government’s commitment to advancing the sector in line with national priorities.

“I commend the committee for aligning its vision with that of President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, who has consistently emphasized the transformation of our ports as a key pillar of economic growth,” he said.

He elaborated that Tanzania’s port development strategy is broad-based, with ongoing investments not only in Dar es Salaam but also in Tanga, Mtwara and inland ports on Lake Tanganyika and Lake Victoria.

“We are building ships to improve marine transport on our inland lakes. A new vessel for Lake Victoria is already in the trial phase and will begin operations soon,” he revealed.

He stressed that the combined port and shipping projects are designed to improve service delivery, boost trade and lower the cost of living by bringing essential transport services closer to the people.

Dar es Salaam Port serves as a key gateway not only for Tanzanian imports and exports but also for landlocked neighboring countries including Zambia, Malawi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda and Burundi. Enhancing the port’s capacity is thus seen as critical to strengthening Tanzania’s position as a regional trade and logistics hub.