DP World announced that maritime works have commenced on the $1.2 billion Port of Ndayane in Senegal, a project that will significantly advance the African nation’s trade infrastructure and establish it as a key global trade hub. The arrival of the dredger Willem Van Rubroeck in Ndayane this month signifies this important development.
This vessel is set to dredge a 5 km shipping channel, which is a crucial step in constructing this advanced, high-capacity port designed to enhance Senegal’s trade infrastructure.
Project phases and capacity
Phase 1 of the project includes an 840-meter quay and a 5 km channel that can accommodate the largest container ships in the world. This phase will enable the port to handle up to 1.2 million TEUs annually, while Phase 2 will further expand the port with an additional 410-meter quay, positioning Ndayane as a premier logistics center in West Africa.
Building on previous success
The Port of Ndayane builds on DP World’s success at the Port of Dakar, which has increased its capacity from handling 300,000 TEUs in 2008 to 800,000 TEUs in 2023. However, the densely populated location of the Dakar port restricts its expansion, making Ndayane a strategic alternative to support Senegal’s long-term trade and economic development goals.
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Commitment to Senegal’s growth
Following a recent meeting with Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, DP World Group Chairman and CEO Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem reiterated the company’s long-term commitment to Senegal. He expressed confidence in Senegal’s economic potential and emphasized full support for the government’s aspirations for the nation. He stated that the Port of Ndayane would elevate Senegal’s status and influence trade across Africa. Also, he mentioned pride in the achievements at the Port of Dakar, noting that Ndayane represents the next phase in positioning Senegal as a pivotal trade hub in the region. Furthermore, he indicated that their plans extend beyond the port, as they intend to develop an economic zone near the port and Blaise Diagne International Airport, which is expected to create even more jobs than the port itself.
Transforming Senegal’s trade landscape
DP World is collaborating with British International Investment (BII), the UK’s development finance agency, to deliver this project. BII estimates that the port will boost Senegal’s GDP by 3 percent through increased trade flows, potentially adding $15 billion in trade value by 2035. During the construction phase, the project is expected to create over 1,800 jobs, and once operational, it is projected to support 2.3 million jobs across Senegal, including 22,000 directly related to expanded trade.
The Port of Ndayane is poised to redefine Senegal’s role as a regional trade leader, unlocking new opportunities for economic growth, job creation, and global connectivity.
