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Construction work for a new multi-purpose facility within Berbera port in the Republic of Somaliland has gone underway, with a special groundbreaking ceremony to mark the occasion. H.E. President of the Republic of Somaliland, Muse Bihi Abdi, and DP World Group Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, launched the first phase of work, which will consist of building a 400m long quay and 250,000 m2 yard extension, and the development of a free zone to create a new regional trading hub.
As well as Somaliland, DP World Berbera, a joint venture company, will also serve land locked countries in the Horn of Africa such as Ethiopia, which has a 19% stake in the project as a shareholder. Long term DP World partner Shafa Al Nahda Contracting has been awarded the construction contract for the port expansion.
Speaking to mark the occasion, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, said: “We are delighted that construction work has begun and over the next few years we will see a transformation in the capacity of this major infrastructure asset that will benefit people both here and across the Horn of Africa, providing an alternative gateway to international markets and providing jobs to the people of Somaliland. 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 the natural deep-water port and free zone is expected to act as a catalyst for the growth of the regional economy and to create jobs at many levels across the country.
President Muse Bihi Abdi, added: “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.”
