Of the total cargo handled transit cargo to and from the neighbouring landlocked countries, accounted for 25.8 percent of the total traffic. The ports have a potential to handle more transit cargo but are largely limited by poor inland transport logistics and stiff competition from neighbouring ports.

During the year under review, containerized cargo handled was 334,712 TEU’s equivalent to 3,387,887 tons which accounted for over 58 percent of the total dry cargo.

The Authority realized an operating surplus of Tsh. 37,693.4 million which was 26.6% of the turnover. Operating revenue was Tshs 141,412.2 million and expenditure was Tsh. 103,718.8 million.

While Dar es Salaam port realized a surplus of Tshs. 52,152.2 million, the rest of the Authority’s operating centres did not break even. In the case of Tanga port, the poor performance is attributed to the increase in investments in recent years which has pushed-up depreciation costs and hence operating expenditure. Low level of traffic handled at Mtwara port has resulted into less revenue compared to expenses incurred. The Headquarter being a service centre didn’t register any surplus.

A total of Tshs. 12,423.0 million was invested during the period to modernize the ports in terms of infrastructure and provision of adequate equipment to enable provision of services in line with customers and shareholders demands. As TPA was still specified during this period, major capital development programme had to abide with the Government privatization agency (PSRC) directives and guidelines.

Implementation of projects funded by the World Bank under the East African Trade and Transport Facilitation Project were at satisfactory stage. These projects are:

1. Ports Master Plan study which is intended to review operational facilities and requirements for all ports in Tanzania,
2. Security Improvements aimed at improving security in line with the ISPS CODE Project to which TPA became compliant by July 2004 ;
3. Port Community Systems which intends to establish a platform for all port users to exchange information electronically.

Preparations for computerization of all port operations were at advanced stage. The project is intended to enhance operational efficiency.

Labour relations continued to be cordial. Workers were fully involved in the planning process and evaluation of the Authority’s targets and activities through Workers Council. Critical issues concerning working conditions and remunerations were discussed and resolved jointly between the management and workers through the Central Joint Industrial Council (CJIC).

Workshops were conducted to educate workers on the new labour laws and sensitized them on major institutional changes that will affect the Authority’s future structure and operations.

The Authority accords very high priority to human resources development. A total of 652 employees attended different courses within and outside the country at a total cost of Tshs. 872.6 million.

Like elsewhere, the HIV/AIDS pandemic remains the major health concern affecting our employees and families. The Authority continued to provide medical support, including sensitization and provision of life prolonging drugs. The campaign included banners and posters to sensitize workers on HIV/AIDS have been placed at various strategic locations at the Ports and Headquarters.

I express my great appreciation to the port community, customers, the directors and all employees for delivering excellent results and laying solid foundation for the future, all in a year of transition. It is my sincere hope that we are all determined to continue upholding such high standard of performance in the future.

E. N. Mgawe

DIRECTOR GENERAL

Back