DP World has appointed multinational construction conglomerate Mota-Engil to lead the development of the Port of Banana in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), which will position the country as a key trade hub in the region.
According to the port and logistics multinational, Banana port will be in Kongo Central province on the Atlantic coast, representing a major investment in infrastructure that is expected to transform the country’s trade landscape by reducing costs to businesses and reinforcing its economic independence.
As the DRC’s first fully equipped maritime gateway for containerised cargo, it will streamline trade processes, centralise all administrative and customs operations, and enhance the government’s visibility and control over foreign trade operations.
The port will be developed in phases, with the first phase encompassing a design to accommodate the world’s largest vessels and featuring a 600-metre quay, handling capacity of 450 000 TEUs per year, and 30 hectares of storage area. The second phase will extend the quay wall by over 2km.
DP World CEO and group chairman, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, emphasised the strategic importance of the development and the partnership with Mota-Engil, an engineering and construction firm with experience in large-scale infrastructure projects, including port development.
“Banana port is a transformative project that will reshape the trade and logistics landscape of the DRC. By partnering with Mota-Engil, we are ensuring that this world-class infrastructure is built to the highest standards, fostering economic growth and creating new opportunities for the Congolese people.”
He said the company would deliver a port that would empower citizens.
“This project will transform trade, create jobs, and strengthen the country's economy for generations to come.”
British International Investment, the UK’s development finance institution and impact investor, has partnered with DP World in developing the port.
The construction will involve numerous companies, including local enterprises, and create thousands of direct and indirect jobs, providing new opportunities for Congolese workers and businesses.
