SENEGAL
Beyond Dakar: The Future Flows Through Ndayane
Senegal’s Atlantic coast is buzzing with big plans. The government and DP World have just signed an amendment that takes the Port of Ndayane project up a notch. The move strengthens the framework and paves the way for financing as well as giving both sides a clearer path to deliver what’s set to become one of West Africa’s most ambitious deep-water ports.
Ndayane is located about 50 kilometers from Dakar, conveniently close to Blaise Diagne International Airport. Its location is no accident—it’s designed to ease pressure on Dakar’s overworked port while offering room to grow. The first phase of construction includes an 840-meter quay and a 5-kilometer channel, deep enough to welcome the world’s biggest ships. It is designed to eventually handle over a million containers annually.
That’s just the beginning. A second phase is already penciled in, with plans for an extra 410 meters of quay and an even deeper channel. The port comes with much more. Surrounding it will be warehouses, logistics parks, and a special economic zone meant to attract manufacturers and investors looking for a springboard into African and global markets.
Why does it matter? Dakar’s current port is nearing capacity, and delays can slow down trade. Ndayane offers a fresh start: more space, faster flow, and a chance to become a true logistics hub for the region. For DP World, the project is another step in building a global network that ties Africa more tightly into the arteries of international commerce.
The amendment just signed is more than paperwork—it’s a signal of momentum. With the framework refreshed and both sides aligned, Ndayane’s transformation from blueprint to reality feels closer than ever. Senegal is betting big on the sea, and the ripple effects could significantly boost regional trade flows.
Sources: www.koaci.com | maritime-executive.com | allafrica.com
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ANGOLA
From Ports to Pixels: AD Ports' Big Angola Boost
AD Ports Group is shifting gears in Angola with a mix of trucks, tech, and strategic partnerships. The group has invested $6 million in its subsidiary Noatum Unicargas Logistics, adding 30 trucks and 45 trailers. That’s enough to nearly double its overland fleet to 70 trucks and 95 trailers—boosting the speed and reliability of goods moving from port to city and beyond.
On the digital side, AD Ports has teamed up with Angola’s Regulatory Agency for Cargo and Logistics Certification (ARCCLA) to launch the Digital Single Logistics Trade Window, or JUL. This platform, which is still under development, will unify the country’s sea, air, and land trade systems, bringing together the existing Single Port Window (JUP), Single Window for Foreign Trade (JUCE), and national logistics platforms. The result? Less red tape, smoother procedures, and expected to support greener logistics.
These initiatives build on AD Ports’ recent foothold in Luanda, where it began operating the Noatum Ports Luanda Multipurpose Terminal just six months ago. Together, they form part of the group’s $250 million commitment through 2026; all about creating a smarter, more connected supply chain that can keep pace with Angola’s fast-growing economy.
And it doesn’t stop at ports and trucks. AD Ports has also signed five preliminary agreements with public and private Angolan partners, opening doors for collaboration in maritime services, cabotage, airport cargo handling, training, and even healthcare logistics. One of the most innovative projects is the DOCKTOUR joint venture with UAE-based Burjeel Holding, which aims to deliver specialized medical supply chain services across Angola.
The multi-layered strategy reflects a clear vision: to position Angola as a hub of trade, connectivity, and industrial transformation in West Africa. With digital platforms driving efficiency, expanded fleets improving inland reach, and new partnerships diversifying the service offering, AD Ports Group is not only investing in Angola but helping to position Angola as a stronger hub in West Africa.
Sources: angola24horas.com | www.newsweek.com
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BENIN
Benin's Busy Port: Big Gains, New Puzzles
The Port of Cotonou is making waves. In the first half of 2025, Benin’s main maritime hub handled 6.7 million tons of cargo—a 63% jump compared to last year. Imports drove much of the growth, climbing 55% to 4.1 million tons, while exports nearly doubled, hitting 2.16 million tons. The port also welcomed more ships: 404 vessels versus 338 a year earlier, a sign that carriers and traders are leaning more on Cotonou as a key entry point for trade to Nigeria and the Sahel.
Still, the ride wasn’t entirely smooth. After a strong start to the year, activity eased in Q2, with volumes dipping to 3.15 million tons. Transshipment—a key part of Cotonou’s business—also slipped in the first half, down 8.6% compared to 2024. Yet Q2 brought a rebound, hinting at resilience in this critical segment. Seasonal trends, regional competition, and shifting global trade patterns remain challenges, but despite quarterly fluctuations, year-on-year growth remains strong.
Overlaying the growth story is a twist in global shipping. Maersk, one of the world’s largest carriers, has trimmed some direct calls to Cotonou as part of a shake-up in its West Africa WAF7 service. The company says the move is about tightening schedules and using vessels more efficiently, but the ripple effects could reach beyond Benin. For years, Cotonou has served as a convenient back-door gateway for Nigeria-bound cargo. With fewer Maersk calls, some of that traffic could face delays, rerouting or higher costs.
What emerges is a picture of a port on the rise, yet navigating shifting tides. Cotonou’s cargo boom highlights its growing role as a regional hub, but changing carrier strategies are a reminder that growth depends on adaptability. For traders and logistics players, the message is clear: Cotonou is a gateway of growing importance—but one that requires keeping an eye on the currents.
Sources: congoquotidien.com | presidence.cd/actualite-detail
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CONGO
Yoro Port Reborn: A Hub for Congo's Future
The Republic of Congo, with support from the World Bank through the PRACAC program, is preparing a major rehabilitation and modernization of the Port of Yoro in Brazzaville. Recognized as a strategic river port for trade, supply, and regional integration, Yoro currently faces challenges of congestion and degraded infrastructure. The project aims to transform the port into a modern facility that can meet the growing needs of the city and the wider region.
Planned works include the construction of new quays and storage areas, cold storage and utilities, administrative buildings, digital infrastructure, and improved access roads and lighting. The project also includes space for organized markets for informal vendors, making the port a safer and more accessible environment for both trade and people.
To ensure the project is both practical and sustainable, the government and the World Bank are relying on an early market engagement strategy. This approach invites local and international firms to provide input before final designs are completed, helping to test technical assumptions, identify risks in advance, and generate innovative solutions. A stakeholder meeting was held in Brazzaville on 9 September 2025 to discuss technical, environmental, and social considerations linked to the project.
The ambition is to turn Yoro into a modern, multipurpose river hub that boosts trade, strengthens regional connectivity, and creates new economic opportunities in and around Brazzaville. While dredging and full construction works have not yet been confirmed as underway, the project is officially in the preparation and design phase, with strong backing from both the World Bank and the Congolese government.
Sources: indiaseatradenews.com | www.ecofinagency.com | www.msc.com
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