LORD Collins, the UK parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Africa, has expressed satisfaction on the ongoing investments at the Dar es Salaam port, noting that these efforts have significantly improved the unloading and offloading of cargo.

Speaking to journalists shortly after touring the port yesterday as part of his two-day visit in the country, he said his visit is meant to strengthen relations in trade, investment, clean energy and health.

 “This enhancement is not only boosting national revenues but also facilitating trade expansion, thereby contributing to overall economic growth and the circulation of goods,” he said, affirming that considerable improvements in port infrastructure make it highly attractive.

The Dar es Salaam port serves as a model for the East African region as it connects Tanzania with landlocked neighboring countries, even as further improvements will lead to increased productivity, he stated.

He commended TPA and others involved in facilitating port enhancement, at a site tour in the company of the resident high commissioner, Marianne Young. UK Aid is among the donors contributing to improvement of various aspects of the Dar es Salaam port infrastructure.

This has encompassed the construction of internal roads, enhancement of parking areas and technology network supporting various operations at the port, officials explained.

Dr. Baraka Mdima, the acting deputy port director, said that the visit is a catalyst for visible developments at the port. "The contribution of the UK is significant,” he said, expressing gratitude for the support as the port now receives many ships that the port previously did not have.

The volume of cargo has also increased, contributing to the growth of national revenue, he said, appealing to stakeholders to maintain use of the port as it has captured a larger regional market share due to its enhanced service capacity.

Mbelwa Kairuki, the high commissioner to the UK who accompanied the UK cabinet official, praised TPA, assuring the UK high commission that the mission was ready to welcome UK investors to Tanzania.

The high commission also works to open more opportunities for local entrepreneurs wishing to invest in Britain, he added.