Welcome to today’s West African Maritime Industry Update, where we bring you the latest developments in port expansions, security concerns, industry investments, and training initiatives. Stay informed with key insights shaping the maritime sector in West Africa.
Port Developments in West Africa
Senegal: Jan De Nul Begins Dredging for a New Deep-Water Port
Belgium-based offshore contractor Jan De Nul has commenced dredging operations for a new deep-water port in Senegal. This facility is set to accommodate two of the world’s largest container ships simultaneously, aiming to relieve congestion at the Port of Dakar. The project is expected to take approximately two and a half years to complete, strengthening Senegal’s position as a key maritime hub in West Africa.
Nigeria: APM Terminals Completes $115M Upgrade at Onne Port
APM Terminals has successfully completed a $115 million upgrade at the West Africa Container Terminal (WACT) in Onne, Nigeria. This investment is designed to enhance operational efficiency and increase cargo handling capacity, supporting Nigeria’s growing import and export demands.
Maritime Security in the Gulf of Guinea
Piracy Alert: Cargo Ship Boarded Off Equatorial Guinea
Security concerns remain high in the Gulf of Guinea, following a recent piracy incident where an armed group boarded a cargo ship off the coast of Equatorial Guinea. Maritime security firms have issued warnings, urging vessels to take preventive measures while navigating in the region. This highlights the ongoing threats to shipping operations, reinforcing the need for enhanced surveillance and security measures.
Training & Industry Partnerships
Kenya: Maersk and Kenya Ports Authority Launch Cadet Training Program
Maersk, in partnership with the Kenya Ports Authority, has introduced a world-class maritime training program for Kenyan cadets. The initiative is aimed at developing local expertise and strengthening Kenya’s position in the global shipping industry.
Liberia & Sierra Leone Strengthen Maritime Partnership
The governments of Liberia and Sierra Leone have announced a collaborative effort to enhance maritime operations and security. This partnership is expected to improve compliance with international maritime regulations, encourage investment in port infrastructure, and foster economic growth.
Major Industry Investments
Nigeria: Shell Commits $5B to Bonga North Deepwater Project
Shell has confirmed a $5 billion investment in the Bonga North deepwater project, located 130 kilometers off the West African coast. This major investment forms part of Nigeria’s efforts to attract foreign capital and drive economic development in the offshore oil and gas sector.
Why This Matters for the West African Maritime Industry
These latest developments reflect the ongoing transformation of West Africa’s maritime sector, driven by port expansions, infrastructure investments, security measures, and workforce training. With major projects underway, stakeholders must remain informed to capitalize on emerging opportunities.
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