SIMIC

More than US$1 billion has been invested for the development of this new port and marks DP World's largest port investment in Africa to date, and the largest single private investment in the history of Senegal, reports London's Port Technology.

"The development of modern, quality port infrastructure is vital for economic development. With the Port of Ndayane, Senegal will have state-of-the-art port infrastructure that will reinforce our country's position as a major trade hub and gateway in West Africa," said Macky Sall, President of the Republic of Senegal.

"It will unlock significant economic opportunities for local businesses, create jobs, and increase Senegal's attractiveness to foreign investors."

Phase one of the development will include construction of a container terminal with 840m of quay and a new 5km marine channel designed to handle two 336m vessels simultaneously, and capable of handling the largest container vessels in the world.

Phase two will add another container quay of 410m to increase capacity further.

Alongside this, DP World also aims to develop an economic and industrial zone next to the port and near the Blaise Diagne International Airport, creating an integrated multimodal transportation, logistics and industrial hub.

A ceremony celebrating the laying of the first stone at the port was recently held attended by the presdient and Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group chairman and CEO of DP World,

Mr Sulayem said: "Today's laying of the first stone not only marks the start of construction but also turning the vision of President Sall, into reality. As the leading enabler of global trade, we will bring all our expertise, technology and capability to this port project, the completion of which will support Senegal's development over the next century."

"We thank President Sall, his government, and the Port Authority for the trust and confidence placed in us."