DP World has initiated maritime construction at the $1.2 billion Port of Ndayane in Senegal, marking a significant step in transforming the country into a major hub for global trade. The dredger Willem Van Rubroeck’s arrival at Ndayane signals the start of dredging a 5-km-long shipping channel, an essential component of the port’s development.
Phase 1 of the project includes an 840-meter quay and a channel capable of accommodating the world’s largest container ships, with an annual handling capacity of 1.2 million TEUs. Phase 2 will add a 410-meter quay, further positioning Ndayane as a leading logistics hub in West Africa.
The Port of Ndayane builds on the success of the Port of Dakar, which DP World has expanded from handling 300,000 TEUs in 2008 to 800,000 TEUs in 2023. However, the Dakar port’s urban location limits its potential for growth, making Ndayane a strategic project to support Senegal’s trade ambitions.
“The Port of Ndayane will elevate Senegal and impact trade across Africa,” said DP World Group Chairman and CEO Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem. “Beyond the port, we will develop an economic zone near the port and Blaise Diagne International Airport, expected to generate significant employment opportunities.”
DP World is partnering with British International Investment (BII), the UK’s development finance institution, to deliver the project. BII estimates the port will boost Senegal’s GDP by 3%, adding $15 billion in trade value by 2035. The construction phase is projected to create over 1,800 jobs, with 2.3 million jobs expected to be supported across Senegal once the port is operational, including 22,000 directly tied to expanded trade.
The Port of Ndayane is set to position Senegal as a regional trade leader, unlocking opportunities for economic growth, employment and enhanced global connectivity.
