Comoros and African Development Bank Launch $137 Million Maritime Corridor to Boost Trade, Connectivity, and Regional Integration
The Government of the Union of the Comoros has officially launched the Maritime Corridor and Regional Trade Facilitation Project, a transformative initiative aimed at modernizing port infrastructure, enhancing trade, and boosting regional connectivity.
The launch ceremony took place on 27 October 2025 in Moroni, presided over by President Azali Assoumani.
The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) is financing the project with a total contribution of $137 million, comprising a $135 million grant from the African Development Fund and an additional $2 million from the Transition Support Fund.
In addition, the project has secured over $110 million in co-financing from development partners including the World Bank, Islamic Development Bank, French Development Agency (AFD), European Union, and European Investment Bank.
The Global Centre for Adaptation has also supported the initiative by conducting climate risk assessments for port infrastructure.
A Strategic Step Toward Regional Integration
In his address, President Azali Assoumani hailed the project as a milestone in the nation’s development and resilience strategy:
“The maritime corridor we are launching today is an eloquent testimony to our ability to build a resilient nation, fully integrated into regional and continental dynamics.
It is a living symbol of our openness to the world — a bridge between people and a vehicle for trade, cooperation, and shared prosperity.”
The Minister of Maritime and Air Transport, Yasmine Hassane Alfeine, praised the African Development Bank Group as a “loyal strategic partner,” highlighting its continuous technical and financial support:
“This initiative marks a new step in the modernization of our port and maritime infrastructure, with the prospect of creating a special economic zone that will further enhance Comoros’ competitiveness and integration.”
Driving Economic Growth and Sustainable Development
Laté Lawson Zankli, Country Programme Advisor representing the AfDB Group, described the project as a flagship initiative of the Comoros Emerging Plan 2030, emphasizing its role in supporting agricultural and fisheries value chains, while creating economic opportunities for youth and women.
The project is aligned with the African Development Bank’s Ten-Year Strategy (2024–2033) and its “Four Cardinal Points” policy framework, which prioritize resilient infrastructure, sustainable value chains, and inclusive growth.
Since 1977, the African Development Bank Group has financed nearly 40 projects in Comoros, with cumulative investments of approximately $530 million across transport, energy, agriculture, and governance sectors.
The new Maritime Corridor and Regional Trade Facilitation Project underscores the Bank’s long-term commitment to supporting Comoros’ economic transformation, regional integration, and sustainable development goals.
