Port operators and government officials from four African countries are visiting the United States to explore technologies aimed at modernising port infrastructure, digitalising supply chains and improving maritime security.
The US Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) is hosting the 15-member delegation from Angola, Kenya, Nigeria and Senegal from September 12 to 19.
Delegates will meet US technology providers and view demonstrations of port automation, logistics and cybersecurity systems. The programme includes visits to the Port of New York and New Jersey, Liberty Bayonne and the Port of Wilmington.
“Sub-Saharan Africa is home to global supply-chain hubs that handle substantial cargo volumes, and the sector is primed for modernisation to improve cargo-handling efficiencies and port security,” USTDA said.
The visit comes as two-way goods trade between the US and sub-Saharan Africa reached approximately $56.35 billion (R912.4bn) in 2025, according to US Census Bureau figures.
Nigeria was the largest US trading partner among the participating countries, with two-way trade valued at $11.8bn (R191bn). This comprised $6.78bn (R109.8bn) in US exports and $5.02bn (R81.3bn) in imports.
US trade with Angola amounted to about $2.05bn (R33.2bn), including $1.18bn (R19.1bn) in US exports and $871.1m (R14.1bn) in imports. Trade was supported by energy-sector equipment and industrial machinery.
Two-way goods trade with Kenya reached approximately $1.84bn (R29.8bn), comprising $982.4m (R15.9bn) in US exports and $862.2m (R14bn) in imports. Trade was driven partly by US aerospace exports and Kenyan apparel shipments under the African Growth and Opportunity Act.
Trade between the US and Senegal amounted to $659.6m (R10.7bn), comprising $441.7m (R7.2bn) in US exports and $217.9m (R3.5bn) in imports. US exports included agricultural commodities and manufactured goods.
USTDA will host a business briefing in Washington on September 16, where participating officials will outline planned port developments and meet prospective technology and service providers.
