Abstract
This study assesses how Automated Cargo-Handling (ACH) systems influence operational efficiency at Dar es Salaam Port, Tanzania’s primary maritime gateway. Employing a convergent mixed-methods design, it integrates quantitative data from 96 structured questionnaires (Cronbach’s α = .842) and port-efficiency metrics with qualitative insights from 20 semi-structured interviews and three days of quay-side observation. Respondents rated ACH benefits highly (M = 4.12/5), and Pearson’s correlation (r = .642, p < .001) confirmed a strong positive relationship between ACH adoption and a composite Port-Efficiency Index. Multiple regression showed ACH contributed uniquely to 27.8 % of efficiency variance (β = .278, p < .001), even when controlling for complementary technologies, cybersecurity, and workforce competence. Thematic analysis revealed “Operational Acceleration” as a dominant theme, corroborated by a 41 % reduction in average vessel-quay working time (12.6 h to 7.4 h). While mechanization drives significant throughput gains, moderate challenge scores underscore the need for resilient power backing and targeted maintenance training. Findings inform policy and operational strategies, guiding port authorities in balancing hard-automation investments with infrastructure and capacity-building measures to sustain long-term performance gains.
Keywords
References
- Braun, V., & Clarke, V. (2013). Successful qualitative research: A practical guide for beginners. SAGE.Google Scholar ↗
- Heilig, L., Schwarze, S., & Voß, S. (2017). An analysis of digital transformation in the history of modern ports. Journal of Shipping and Trade, 2(1), 5. https://doi.org/10.1186/s41072-017-0022-5DOI ↗Google Scholar ↗
- Joubert, D. (2018). Port automation in emerging economies: A case study of Mombasa Port. Maritime Economics & Logistics, 20(3), 321–341. https://doi.org/10.1057/s41278-017-0092-6DOI ↗Google Scholar ↗
- Kothari, C. R. (2004). Research methodology: Methods and techniques (2nd ed.). New Age International.Google Scholar ↗
- Lam, J. S. L., & Yap, W. Y. (2015). Port governance and the role of public–private partnerships in enhanced port performance: A case study of Asia–Pacific region. Transportation Research Part A: Policy and Practice, 77, 236–248. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tra.2015.04.022DOI ↗Google Scholar ↗
- Lee, S. W., & Song, D.-W. (2019). Comprehensive model for the analysis of port efficiency in automation transitions. Maritime Policy & Management, 46(2), 153–171. https://doi.org/10.1080/03088839.2018.1475490DOI ↗Google Scholar ↗
- Meisel, F. (2016). The future of port operations: Automated gantries and beyond. International Journal of Shipping and Transport Logistics, 8(4), 321–338. https://doi.org/10.1504/IJSTL.2016.076128DOI ↗Google Scholar ↗
- Notteboom, T., & Rodrigue, J.-P. (2008). Containerization, box logistics and global supply chains: The integration of ports and terminals. Maritime Economics & Logistics, 10(1–2), 152–174. https://doi.org/10.1057/palgrave.mel.9100197DOI ↗Google Scholar ↗
- Saunders, M., Lewis, P., & Thornhill, A. (2019). Research methods for business students (8th ed.). Pearson.Google Scholar ↗
- Schiller, S., Zimmermann, F., & Mayer, T. (2019). Cybersecurity in port operations: Challenges and best practices. Journal of Maritime Policy & Management, 46(6), 744–763. https://doi.org/10.1080/03088839.2018.1563812DOI ↗Google Scholar ↗
- TPA. (2023). Annual strategic report 2022/23. Tanzania Ports Authority.Google Scholar ↗
- World Bank. (2021). Port performance and automation in Sub-Saharan Africa. World Bank Publications.Google Scholar ↗
- Yuen, K. F., & Wang, X. (2013). Port competitiveness: The role of automation and digitalisation. Transport Reviews, 33(5), 565–588.Google Scholar ↗
- https://doi.org/10.1080/01441647.2013.827884DOI ↗Google Scholar ↗