The arrival of the dredger Willem Van Rubroeck in Ndayane has signaled the commencement of maritime works for the $1.2 billion Port of Ndayane, a transformative project aimed at positioning Senegal as a major center for global trade.
The vessel’s task is to dredge a 5 km-long shipping channel, a critical step in constructing this high-capacity port. Phase 1 includes an 840m quay and a channel capable of accommodating the world’s largest container ships, creating a capacity to handle 1.2 million TEUs annually. Phase 2 will expand the quay by an additional 410m, solidifying Ndayane’s role as a logistics hub in West Africa.
The project builds on the success of DP World’s operations at the Port of Dakar, which grew from handling 300,000 TEUs in 2008 to 800,000 TEUs in 2023. However, Dakar’s urban constraints limit its expansion, making Ndayane a strategic solution to drive Senegal’s long-term trade growth.
DP World Group Chairman Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, following a meeting with Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, reiterated the company’s commitment to Senegal’s economic ambitions.
“The Port of Ndayane will elevate Senegal’s trade infrastructure and impact commerce across Africa. Beyond the port, we plan to develop an economic zone near Blaise Diagne International Airport, generating significant employment opportunities,”
he said.
Collaborating with British International Investment (BII), the project is expected to boost Senegal’s GDP by 3%, adding $15 billion in trade value by 2035. During construction, over 1,800 jobs will be created, with operational phases supporting 2.3 million jobs across Senegal.
The Port of Ndayane represents a transformative leap for Senegal, unlocking regional connectivity, economic growth, and employment opportunities.
News Source: Dubai Media Office
