Construction starts at DP World’s Somaliland port

This will include a 400-metre quay and a 250,000 square metre yard extension

The first phase of construction at the multipurpose Berbera port in Somaliland has started, which will include a 400-metre quay and 250,000 square metre yard extension as well as the development of a free zone for a new regional trading hub.

The DP World Berbera will also serve landlocked countries in the Horn of Africa such as Ethiopia, which has a 19 per cent stake in the project as a shareholder.

“This is all part of our vision to act as an enabler of trade and to encourage growth by helping African countries develop their economies with access to global markets,” said Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, DP World Group Chairman and CEO.

“Investment in this natural deepwater port and free zone will act as a catalyst for the growth of the country and the region’s economy and create jobs at many levels.

“Alongside physical assets we are investing in the development of the people who work here through training and skills development across our network.”

Shafa Al Nahda Contracting has been awarded the contract for the port expansion. It has been involved in the Port of Dakar expansion in Senegal as well the Port of Maputo expansion project in Mozambique.

“We are delighted that construction work has begun and over the next few years we will see a transformation in the capacity of this major infrastructure asset.

“This will benefit people both here and across the Horn of Africa, providing an alternative gateway to international markets and providing jobs to the people of Somaliland,” said Bin Sulayem.