H.E. president of the Republic of Somaliland, Muse Bihi Abdi and DP World group chairman and CEO Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem has launched the first phase of construction work at Berbera port in the Republic of Somaliland
The first phase will consist of building a 400m quay and 250,000sq m yard extension as well as the development of a free zone to create a new regional trading hub. DP World Berbera, the joint venture company, will also serve landlocked countries in the Horn of Africa such as Ethiopia which has a 19 per cent stake in the project as a shareholder.
Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, group chairman and CEO, DP World, said, ?This is all part of our vision to act as an enabler of trade and to encourage growth by helping African countries develop their economies with access to global markets. Investment in this natural deep-water port and the free zone will act as a catalyst for the growth of the country and the region?s economy and create jobs at many levels. Alongside physical assets, we are investing in the development of the people who work here through training and skills development across our network.?
Shafa Al Nahda Contracting has been awarded the contract for the port expansion. It has been involved in the Port of Dakar expansion in Senegal as well the Port of Maputo expansion project in Mozambique.
The president of Somaliland, Muse Bihi Abdi, added, ?Connecting to landlocked countries such as Ethiopia and the rest of the region will reinforce the firm relationships that now exist and make Somaliland an important player in regional economic integration and growth. The importance of the Port of Berbera as a Red Sea gateway for the Middle East and Africa can now be realised, unlocking our potential as a trade hub and creating jobs across the country.?
