DP World has ushered in a new era for trade in West Africa with the start of construction on the Port of Ndayane in Senegal , a strategic project valued at $1.2 billion. The new port, to be built in two phases, will become a key logistics hub for the African continent, boosting Senegal’s capacity as a global trade hub.
The Willem Van Rubroeck dredger is key to the port of Ndayane
The arrival of the dredger Willem Van Rubroeck this month at the Port of Ndayane in the town of Ndayane, Senegal, signals the start of maritime operations for the new port. The vessel will begin work on dredging a 5-kilometer navigation channel , designed to accommodate the world’s largest container ships . This step is essential to facilitate the construction of an infrastructure that will transform the landscape of trade in the region.
The initial phase of the project includes the construction of an 840-metre quay and a channel capable of handling up to 1.2 million TEUs per year , positioning the port as a major player in the maritime connection between Africa and the rest of the world. In its final phase, an additional 410-metre quay will be added, consolidating Ndayane as a leading port in the region.
DP World and its commitment to Senegal
DP World, a maritime and logistics infrastructure giant, has demonstrated a long-term commitment to the development of Senegal. The company also manages the Port of Dakar, which has seen significant growth since it began operations in 2008. However, the urban location of the Port of Dakar limits its capacity for expansion, making the Port of Ndayane a key solution to support the country’s economic and trade growth in the coming decades.
Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Chairman and CEO of DP World, highlighted during a recent meeting with Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko that the Port of Ndayane represents a step towards Senegal’s future as a global trading hub. In addition to the port, DP World plans to develop an economic zone near Blaise Diagne International Airport , which will create even more opportunities for employment and economic growth.
Economic implications for Senegal and Africa
The impact of this new port on the Senegalese economy will be significant. According to British International Investment (BII), the UK’s development agency, the port is expected to boost Senegal’s GDP by 3% thanks to improved trade flows, which could generate up to $15 billion in trade value by 2035.
Furthermore, the construction of the port is estimated to create more than 1,800 direct jobs and, once operational, the port will support approximately 2.3 million jobs across Senegal, including 22,000 positions directly related to trade.
The Port of Ndayane is shaping up to be a project that will transform Senegal and also strengthen West Africa’s position in the global economy . This port, together with its economic zone and nearby airport infrastructure , represents an important step in creating new opportunities for economic growth, employment and global connectivity for Senegal and the African continent at large.
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Source: DP Word