Senegal’s ambitious construction of the Ndayane Port, set to become West Africa’s largest deep-sea port by 2027, is a testament to the region’s commitment to infrastructure development.
With gas production from Grande Tortue Ahmeyim (GTA) in Senegal and Mauritania, and first oil from Sangomar in Senegal, the MSGBC nations are gearing up to accommodate increased exports.
Guinea-Bissau, recognizing the need to modernize its ports, initiated a significant project to upgrade the Port of Bissau, heralded as the country’s largest harbor endeavor to date.
President Umaro Sissoco Embaló outlined the comprehensive scope of the project, including dock extensions, dredging, enhanced infrastructure, and the acquisition of modern port equipment.
These improvements aim to increase port traffic and container storage capacity, addressing the current operational inefficiencies and high costs.
Originally designed to handle far fewer containers, the Port of Bissau has struggled to keep pace with escalating demands, particularly from neighboring Guinea Conakry’s bauxite mining activity.
By deepening the navigation channel and maneuvering basin, the port will accommodate larger vessels, reducing logistical costs and enhancing competitiveness in international markets.
International cooperation plays a pivotal role in this endeavor, with Turkey actively supporting Guinea-Bissau’s port and maritime infrastructure development.
Backed by expertise and resources from Turkey’s Ministry of Transport and Communications, the modernization project at the Bissau Port is set to benefit from a comprehensive survey and feasibility study.
Moreover, sub-regional collaboration, exemplified by co-financing from institutions like the West African Development Bank and the Bank of West Africa, underscores the importance of South-South cooperation in driving essential development projects.
As hydrocarbon development unfolds in the region, these infrastructure investments are poised to facilitate trade expansion and foster stronger economic ties among MSGBC nations in the foreseeable future.
