The Democratic Republic of Congo has announced plans to increase the volume of cargo passing through the Port of Dar es Salaam from 50 percent to 60 percent. This move comes after the commencement of operations at new mines, resulting in increased mineral production. The pledge was made by DRC Minister of International Trade, Julien Paluku Kahongya, during a visit to the Tanzania Ports Authority on September 19, 2026.
Minister Kahongya was accompanied by a delegation of senior government officials from the DRC. He stated that the DRC is prepared to utilize various cargo transportation routes, including transporting cargo through the border to the Port of Kigoma. The Tanzanian Government has launched a vessel to facilitate the transportation of DRC cargo through Kigoma. This development aims to enhance trade and transportation between the two countries.
The DRC Minister expressed gratitude to the Tanzanian government for allocating 60 hectares of land to the DRC at Kwala Dry Port for cargo storage. The land will be used before transporting cargo to the DRC. In return, the DRC Government has allocated 60 hectares of land to the Tanzanian Government to facilitate transportation and trade activities in the country.
The Tanzanian Government is taking steps to improve the Port of Kigoma through private-sector investment. Dar es Salaam Port Director Abed G. Abed, speaking on behalf of TPA Director General Plasduce Mbossa, mentioned that the government is also constructing the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR). The SGR will enable cargo from the DRC to be transported directly, improving efficiency between the two countries.
The increased mineral production in the DRC has led to a surge in demand for efficient transportation routes. The Port of Dar es Salaam is a vital transportation hub for landlocked countries, including the DRC. By increasing cargo volume through the port, the DRC aims to boost its trade and economic activities.
The collaboration between Tanzania and the DRC is expected to strengthen bilateral relations and promote economic growth. The two countries have been working together to enhance trade and transportation infrastructure. The increased use of the Port of Dar es Salaam will also benefit Tanzania's economy through increased revenue and job creation.
The implementation of the new plan is expected to be carried out in the coming months. The DRC and Tanzania will work together to ensure the smooth transportation of cargo through the Port of Dar es Salaam. The increased cargo volume will contribute to the growth of both countries' economies.
Key points
- The DRC plans to increase cargo volume through Dar Port to 60 percent following the opening of new mines.
- The Tanzanian Government is improving the Port of Kigoma through private-sector investment and constructing the Standard Gauge Railway.
- The collaboration between Tanzania and the DRC aims to strengthen bilateral relations and promote economic growth.
