Why Kobe-Kobe Is Central Africa's

Most Ambitious Project Yet

On June 8, 2026, Gabon's President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema officially broke ground on what may become one of Central Africa's most significant logistics infrastructure projects: the Kobe-Kobe deep-water mineral port. With a total investment of $10 billion, this five-year construction programme is set to transform the country's export capabilities and redefine regional trade flows.

Located on Gabon's Atlantic coast, south of the Gabon estuary, the future port will be capable of accommodating next-generation bulk carriers, with a water depth of 14 to 16 metres. At full capacity, the complex will handle up to 110 million tonnes of cargo per year across four mineral terminals and two multipurpose berths for containers and general freight.

At the heart of the project is the Belinga iron ore deposit — one of Africa's largest, with estimated reserves of up to one billion tonnes. To connect mine to port, a 550 km railway corridor will be constructed, enabling the transport of up to 250,000 tonnes of ore per day. Australian mining group Fortescue, operating through its subsidiary Ivindo Iron, is leading the mine's development and has already committed $305 million to the project.

But Kobe-Kobe is more than a minerals export facility. The Gabonese government is positioning it as a full industrial hub, prioritising local processing over raw material exports, investing in low-carbon energy infrastructure, and targeting 100,000 direct and indirect jobs. It will also serve as an alternative to the congested port of Owendo, potentially attracting cargo flows from landlocked neighbours such as Chad and the Central African Republic.

Set to become operational in April 2031, Kobe-Kobe is a bold statement of economic ambition — and a clear signal that Gabon is open for business. As new cargo flows emerge and trade volumes build, having a valid Gabon ECTN certificate in place before your shipment departs is the essential first step. We make that process fast and straightforward — get in touch today.

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