Findings by a socio-economic impact assessment conducted by Dubai ports operator, DP World, show that the fast-expanding multinational logistics provider has created more than 19 000 employment opportunities in Africa’s biggest two economies, South Africa and Nigeria.
The research by consultancy firm Accenture also confirmed that DP World’s involvement in the economies of these countries unlocked $13 billion in real-term value.
A statement released during Tuesday’s launch of the independent research, Socio-economic impact assessment reports for SA and Nigeria, said: “Since acquiring Johannesburg-based Imperial Logistics in March 2022, DP World has significantly expanded its presence and scale in both countries.”
The research was tailored according to three different metrics, focussing on the value created for industry, partners and society.
DP World said its involvement goes beyond mere job creation.
“Improved access to affordable, safe medicine and primary health care facilities, meant an estimated $67.1 million was saved by Nigerian consumers,” it said.
In terms of sustainable growth and development, the Emirati logistics enterprise said it respectively added $6.24 billion and $6.74 billion to the economies of SA and Nigeria.
Mohammed Akoojee, who heads up DP World in sub-Saharan Africa, said the company remains committed to the change-maker principles of environment, society and governance.
Elaborating on ongoing developments to bring about diversified progressive change through trade enablement in leading economies on the continent, Akoojee said: “Our efforts in Nigeria and South Africa have not only supported direct and indirect jobs and improved health care access but have also strengthened supply chains and facilitated trade, laying the foundation for long term economic stability and growth.
“We believe that our resilience and innovation are key to transforming the regions and communities in which we operate. We are not just building a business, we are building stronger, healthier, and more resilient communities,” he said.
