Africa is targeting logistics bottlenecks with major port, storage and transport projects to unlock hydrocarbon potential, cut costs and attract investment across the oil and gas sector.

Across the continent, poor road networks, limited storage facilities, congested ports and fragmented cross-border transport systems continue to inflate operational costs and slow exports. These inefficiencies affect both producers and consumers, while discouraging investment and costing the sector billions of euros in lost revenue.

As highlighted in recent industry discussions, “Africa is rich in hydrocarbon resources, yet much of this potential remains under-exploited due to logistics challenges.”

In response, governments and private investors are increasingly prioritizing strategic infrastructure projects aimed at streamlining supply chains, reducing costs and connecting Africa’s energy resources more efficiently to global markets.

Republic of Congo Expands Pointe-Noire Port

One of the most significant logistics investments underway is in the Republic of Congo, where Africa Global Logistics has secured more than €230 million to expand the container terminal at the Port of Pointe-Noire.

The project includes the construction of a 750-meter quay, dredging to create a 17-meter-deep berth and the installation of modern cargo-handling equipment.

Scheduled for completion in 2027, the expanded terminal is expected to double container throughput to 2.3 million units annually. This upgrade is also strategically aligned with Congo’s ambition to raise hydrocarbon production to 500,000 barrels per day and liquefied natural gas (LNG) output to 3 million tons per annum.

Industry analysts note that modern port infrastructure of this scale can significantly reduce vessel waiting times and lower export costs.

By improving turnaround efficiency, ports like Pointe-Noire better integrate African producers into global energy supply chains, strengthening competitiveness in international markets.

Angola Strengthens Export Capacity with Barra do Dande Terminal

Angola has taken a similar step with the inauguration of the Barra do Dande Ocean Terminal in 2025. Valued at $642 million, the facility features 29 storage tanks with a combined capacity of nearly 580,000 cubic meters, alongside a 1,700-meter jetty capable of accommodating large vessels.

The terminal provides a critical link between Angola’s inland production centers and international trade routes, reducing reliance on aging infrastructure and accelerating exports.

According to project proponents, the new facility enhances operational reliability while supporting long-term production growth.

Further expansions are already planned. Integrated developments such as the Soyo terminal and new pipeline routes, expected to come on stream in 2026, will add substantial storage and transport capacity.

These projects are being delivered through public-private partnerships, underscoring what the statement describes as “the value of collaborative investment models” in overcoming infrastructure gaps.

Looking ahead, logistics innovation will be a central theme at the Invest in African Energy (IAE) Forum scheduled for Paris in 2026. During a dedicated session titled “Africa on the Move: Driving Oil & Gas Logistics,” panelists will examine how modular infrastructure, digital logistics platforms and local partnerships can help overcome traditional bottlenecks.

The statement notes that modular facilities, including prefabricated storage systems and mobile processing units, “can be deployed faster and at lower cost than bespoke large-scale builds.” This flexibility is particularly attractive for emerging oil and gas hubs where demand may evolve rapidly.

Local partnerships are also gaining prominence. Collaboration between international investors and regional logistics firms not only mobilizes capital but also builds local expertise, ensuring projects remain sustainable and aligned with national development priorities.

Building Investor Confidence in a Cautious Financing Climate

With traditional financiers becoming increasingly cautious about fossil fuel lending, Africa faces mounting pressure to demonstrate that its energy sector is resilient, efficient and investment-ready.

Logistics infrastructure plays a central role in that narrative, signaling to investors that risks can be mitigated and returns enhanced through smart design and execution.

As the statement emphasizes, logistics investments help “de-risk” projects by improving reliability, lowering costs and ensuring timely access to markets.

For policymakers, operators and investors preparing for IAE Paris 2026, the “Africa on the Move” panel is expected to offer practical insights into how targeted logistics development can accelerate oil and gas production, foster regional integration and support Africa’s broader economic transformation.

In an increasingly competitive global energy landscape, Africa’s ability to unlock its hydrocarbon wealth may depend less on what lies underground and more on how effectively it moves those resources to market.