Dar port touts use of e-payment system

DAR ES SALAAM Port stakeholders have been urged to utilise electronic payment system to ease operations and boost efficiency at the largest port in the country.

The Acting Dar es Salaam Port Manager, Hebel Mhanga told reporters over the weekend that proper use of e-payment system would greatly help to boost efficiency and at the port and improve its competitiveness in the region.

“That is where we are, the world is heading toward that way ... we must conform to such changes,” he said, after a stakeholders meeting.

He noted that apart from bringing efficiency, electronic services bring transparency and help to fight corruption. “Our customers can utilise such services as explained in our website or use mobile payment systems,” he said.

He further explained that there was no reason for port customers to effect their payments at the port and that technology had made it possible for them to do so wherever they are.

Commenting on other measures to improve services at the port, the manager said a system to offer services for 24/7 was gaining ground.

“There was a challenge with some banks, but now they are ready to offer services for longer hours,” he said. He gave an example of NMB Bank who are now ready to offer services for longer hours and that other banks work up to until eight in the evening and more depending on port customers’ needs.

On his part, a TRA official stationed at the port, Mr Wolfgang Salia, said to improve the port, there is an urgent need to improve roads and railways networks.

The Director of Intergovernmental Standing Committee on Shipping (ISCOS), Mr Clement William, said the port would enhance its competitive edge in the region through improving efficiency.

Stakeholders meetings held at every last week of every month seeks to get their views and discuss with Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA) management on better ways to make Dar a favourable port in this region.

SOURCE:DAILY NEWS