Empowering the Future of Trade in Africa

[Deeq A.]

Empowering the Future of Trade in Africa
African American worker driving forklift © African American worker (30s) driving forklift in factory.
African American worker driving forklift © African American worker (30s) driving forklift in factory.
Africa stands on the brink of a logistics transformation—and DP World is proud to be at its heart. Through our integrated logistics infrastructure, we are not only making trade flow but also creating value, empowering communities, driving economic growth, and connecting Africa to global markets while boosting intra-African trade. Our mission goes beyond logistics—we are building the trade ecosystems that will power the continent’s sustainable development.
DP World is a leading global ports and logistics business and its operations in sub-Saharan Africa span 48 countries supported by a workforce of more than 28,000 employees, and a presence that reaches over 460,000 points of sale., From ports and terminals to contract logistics, economic zones, marine services, and market access, we are laying the foundation for a more connected, competitive and resilient Africa.

DP World is committed to the development of Africa. We have already invested $3 billion across Africa over the past three years, and we are planning an additional $3 billion in expansions over the next three years to accelerate trade, improve infrastructure, and support economic integration.

A Full-Service Logistics Ecosystem

What sets DP World apart is our holistic approach. We don’t just move containers—we build trade hubs that stimulate local economies and enable intra-African and international commerce.

Our supply chain services across sub-Saharan Africa cover every link:

Ports and Terminals: With a regional handling capacity of 2 million TEU (twenty-foot equivalent units), our modern and efficient port operations are central to Africa’s trade flows.

Contract Logistics and Warehousing: Our network of c.210 strategically located warehouses, supported by a fleet of c.6,300 vehicles, ensures reliable storage, last-mile delivery, and regional distribution—helping products move efficiently from port to shelf.

Market Access: Our expansive retail footprint, reaching over 460 000 points of sale, helps get products directly into the hands of consumers across urban and rural markets, supporting businesses of all sizes.

Economic Zones: We create vibrant trade and industrial hubs that attract investment, generate employment, and foster innovation. A key example is the Berbera Economic Zone in Somaliland—an integrated maritime, logistics, and industrial platform designed to serve the Horn of Africa and the Ethiopian markets.

Marine Services: Our integrated maritime solutions support vessel efficiency and enhance port performance.

Inland Logistics: In Rwanda, our dry port in Kigali is saving businesses up to $50 million a year in logistics costs, improving access to regional and international markets for landlocked economies.

Through this ecosystem, African businesses—small and large—are accessing new markets faster, reducing logistics costs, and scaling in a sustainable and inclusive manner.

Strategic Investments, Transformative Projects

At DP World, our infrastructure projects are designed not only to improve logistics efficiency but to unlock the economic potential of entire regions—serving as catalysts for industrialisation, integration and growth.

In Senegal, we are developing the Port of Ndayane, one of West Africa’s largest and most advanced deep-water ports. This $1.2 billion investment will significantly increase Senegal’s trade capacity, reduce congestion in Dakar, and drive industrial development through its adjoining economic zone.
In the Democratic Republic of Congo, we are constructing the country’s first deep-sea port at Banana—a vital link that will give the DRC access to global markets and support regional trade integration in Central Africa.
In Mozambique, we are investing $165 million in the expansion of the Port of Maputo, increasing its capacity from 255,000 TEU to 530,000 TEU. This major upgrade reinforces Maputo’s role as a strategic gateway for Southern Africa, opening up new opportunities for regional and cross-border commerce.
In Tanzania, we are expanding and adding capacity to the Port of Dar es Salaam to further enhance its role as a vital gateway for East Africa.
These projects go far beyond infrastructure—they are game-changers that will shape the future of African trade for generations and create thousands of direct and indirect jobs, empowering local communities and strengthening economies.

Creating Jobs, Empowering Communities

In 2024 alone, we invested $4.2 million in community programmes across the continent, focusing on health, access to clean water, education, road safety, and women’s empowerment. Our commitment to creating lasting socio-economic value, including supporting a just energy transition on the continent, is embedded in everything we do.

Across Africa, we are hiring and training local talent, supporting women in logistics and leadership, and partnering with governments on national development priorities.

The impact is tangible. For example, in just two years (FY22 and FY23), DP World contributed $6.74 billion to Nigeria’s economy and $6.24 billion to South Africa—through job creation, local procurement, SME support, and skills development. These are just two examples of how our operations are transforming economies and uplifting communities wherever we operate.

The Time Is Now

Africa’s population is expected to double by 2050. Its markets are growing, its cities expanding and its economy booming. But realising this potential requires integrated, resilient logistics systems that connect African businesses to each other—and to the world.

DP World brings global expertise, deep local understanding, and a long-term commitment to partnership. We are working with governments, the private sector and communities to help make the movement of goods smarter, faster, and greener—unlocking trade as a force for inclusive prosperity.

The challenge is great. But so is the opportunity.

Join us in reimagining logistics and supply chains in Africa—and shaping a future of shared prosperity.

Qaran News