Assessing the Impact of Automated Cargo-Handling Systems on Operational Efficiency at Dar es Salaam Port, Tanzania

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.