DP World, the UAE-based global logistics giant, has launched the maritime works for the highly anticipated $1.2 billion Port of Ndayane in Senegal, signaling a major milestone in the development of the African trade infrastructure.
The commencement of these works was marked by the arrival of the dredger Willem Van Rubroeck from the Jan De Nul Group, a specialized contractor known for its expertise in large-scale dredging projects.
The vessel’s task is to dredge a critical 5-kilometer-long shipping channel, a vital component of the construction process aimed at enhancing the capacity and accessibility of the new port. Ahmed bin Sulayem, DP World’s Chairman and CEO, emphasized the company’s belief in Senegal’s economic potential.
“We believe in Senegal’s economic potential and fully support the government’s ambitions for the nation.
“The Port of Ndayane will elevate Senegal and impact trade across the African continent.”
Ahmed bin Sulayem, DP World’s Chairman and CEO
He further highlighted the long-term vision for the region, stating that the Port of Ndayane would not only improve Senegal’s trade infrastructure but also contribute to the development of a robust economic ecosystem around the port.
The Port of Ndayane, located on the Petite Côte of Senegal, will become a key hub for international trade and maritime activities, designed to accommodate some of the largest container vessels in the world.
With the dredging of the shipping channel now underway, DP World has made significant progress toward completing the port’s first phase of development, which is expected to revolutionize Senegal’s economic landscape and transform the country into a major player in regional trade.
The first phase of the Port of Ndayane’s construction involves the creation of an 840-meter quay and a 5-kilometer-long shipping channel, both of which are necessary to accommodate the world’s largest container ships.
Once completed, the port will have the capacity to handle 1.2 million TEUs annually, which is expected to play a crucial role in easing congestion at the Port of Dakar and facilitating more efficient trade across the continent.
“The strategic location of the port, situated near the Blaise Diagne International Airport, enhances its potential as a multi-modal logistics hub.
“This proximity allows for seamless connections between maritime, air, and land transport, fostering the growth of an integrated logistics ecosystem that can support a wide range of industries.”
Ahmed bin Sulayem, DP World’s Chairman and CEO
Expansion for Future Growth
Following the successful completion of phase 1, phase 2 of the project will see the addition of a further 410 meters of quay space. This expansion will provide the necessary infrastructure to accommodate growing trade volumes and ensure that the port remains competitive on the global stage.
With a combined quay length of over 1,200 meters once both phases are completed, the Port of Ndayane will be poised to handle an even larger share of regional and global container traffic.
The completion of phase 2 will increase the port’s total capacity and solidify its position as a critical gateway for trade between Africa and the rest of the world.
As the port continues to expand, it will also provide greater opportunities for local businesses, creating a dynamic trade environment that will benefit Senegal and the broader African continent.
The Port of Ndayane marks the next level of DP World’s commitment to Senegal, building on the company’s success at the Port of Dakar.
The new port will play a key role in positioning Senegal as a central hub for trade and logistics in West Africa, enhancing the country’s role as a gateway for goods flowing in and out of Africa.
With the start of dredging works and the continued progress of construction, the Port of Ndayane is on track to become a critical infrastructure project that will reshape Senegal’s economy and strengthen its position as a leading player in global trade.
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