DP World begins dredging work at Sengal’s Port of Ndayane

DP World has commenced maritime works at the Port of Ndayane, marking a major step in the development of the $1.2bn project aimed at transforming Senegal into a significant global trade hub.

The arrival of the dredger Willem Van Rubroeck this month signals the start of crucial dredging operations to create a 5 km-long shipping channel, a vital part of the infrastructure for the state-of-the-art port.

Phase 1 of the project includes an 840-metre quay and a 5km channel designed to accommodate the world’s largest container ships, with an annual capacity of 1.2 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units).

Phase 2 will further enhance the port’s capacity with an additional 410-metre quay.

The Port of Ndayane is set to complement DP World’s successful operations at the Port of Dakar, which has seen its container throughput increase from 300,000 TEUs in 2008 to 800,000 TEUs in 2023.

However, the limited space for expansion at the urbanised Dakar port has underscored the need for a new facility. Ndayane, located outside the city, offers a strategic solution to support Senegal’s long-term economic and trade ambitions.

DP World’s project will support Senegal’s economy

Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, chairman and CEO of DP World, emphasised the company’s long-term commitment to Senegal during a recent meeting with Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko. “We believe in Senegal’s economic potential and fully support the government’s ambitions for the nation. The Port of Ndayane will elevate Senegal and impact trade across the African continent. We are proud of our achievements with the Port of Dakar, and Ndayane marks the next level — positioning Senegal as a key trade hub for the region,” he said.

DP World is collaborating with British International Investment (BII), the UK’s development finance agency, to bring the project to fruition. According to BII, the port is expected to boost Senegal’s GDP by 3 per cent, increasing trade flows and potentially adding $15bn in trade value by 2035.

The project will generate over 1,800 jobs during its construction, and once operational, it is projected to support 2.3 million jobs across the country, with 22,000 directly tied to expanded trade activities.

The Port of Ndayane is poised to transform Senegal’s trade infrastructure, unlocking new opportunities for economic growth, employment, and global connectivity.