Construction works for the Port of Maputo’s $164 million container terminal expansion project got under way on Monday.
DP World and The Maputo Port Development Company (MPDC) announced, in a joint statement, the start of Phase 1 of the two-year project which is being completed by Shafa Construções, EA, Limitada.
The expansion will increase the terminal's capacity from the current 255 000 TEUs to 530 000 TEUs per annum.
Key developments include the expansion of the container storage yard to 6.48 hectares, the construction of an additional 400 metres of quay – bringing the total to 650 metres in this phase, and the deepening of the berth draught from -12 metres to -16 metres - allowing the terminal to accommodate new post-Panamax-class vessels of up to 366 metres in length.
More than 700 reefer plugs will be installed to support the growth of agricultural exports, particularly citrus products from Limpopo in South Africa and Massingir in Mozambique.
DP World sub-Saharan Africa CEO and MD Mohammed Akoojee said the company had, for more than 20 years, operated in Mozambique, which had become a vital hub for regional trade.
“Our ongoing investments will bring substantial value, changing the landscape of shipping on the east coast of Africa, and reinforcing Mozambique's position as a key gateway for cargo movement throughout the region,” Akoojee said.
DP World Maputo CEO Captain Sumeet Bhardwaj highlighted the importance of the partnership and the positive impact of the project.
"This is a pivotal milestone for DP World in Maputo. We are building a terminal ready to meet future demands, promoting efficiency, reducing costs and creating new opportunities for trade in the region. This project underscores our long-term commitment to Mozambique’s development,” he said.
MPDC CEO Osório Lucas said the project reaffirmed the port’s commitment to the extension of the concession terms.
"The expansion of the container terminal marks the first big milestone of the strategic vision for the future of the port. This project represents a significant step in strengthening the Port of Maputo’s position as a leading logistics hub in southern Africa.”
The deepened quay and expanded infrastructure will enable the Port of Maputo to receive larger vessels, gaining competitiveness in the region and positioning Maputo as an ideal transhipment hub in the region by 2026.
This modernisation will not only enhance the terminal's operational efficiency but also make freight rates more competitive, directly benefiting Mozambican exporters and logistics operators.
“This strategic investment will deliver significant benefits to the country, including bolstering mineral and agricultural exports, reducing logistical costs, and creating new direct and indirect jobs,” Lucas said.
