
The Port of Ndayane, a groundbreaking $1.2 billion maritime project in Senegal, officially began its maritime construction phase this month with the arrival of the dredger Willem Van Rubroeck. This state-of-the-art vessel will carve out a 5-kilometer-long shipping channel, setting the foundation for what promises to be a transformative project for West Africa’s trade ambitions.
Phase 1 of the Port of Ndayane includes an 840-meter quay and a channel capable of handling some of the largest container ships on the planet. Once complete, this phase alone will enable the port to process up to 1.2 million TEUs annually. Phase 2 will add a 410-meter quay, further solidifying Ndayane’s role as a strategic logistics hub for the region.

This project is the latest milestone in DP World’s expanding footprint in Senegal. Their earlier success at the Port of Dakar, which saw throughput grow from 300,000 TEUs in 2008 to 800,000 TEUs by 2023, underscores the need for this new development. Unlike the constrained urban setting of Dakar, the Ndayane site offers ample space for growth, ensuring long-term scalability for Senegal’s trade network.
DP World’s Chairman and CEO Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem underscored the company’s vision during a meeting with Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko. “The Port of Ndayane is a testament to Senegal’s potential as a major player in global trade. This project is more than just a port—it is a gateway to economic opportunity that will create jobs, attract investment, and redefine Senegal’s position in the global supply chain,” he said.
Beyond the port, DP World has plans to develop an economic zone near Ndayane, which will benefit from its proximity to Blaise Diagne International Airport. The integrated logistics hub is expected to generate significant employment opportunities, surpassing even the direct jobs created by the port.

British International Investment (BII), a key partner in the project, estimates that the Port of Ndayane will boost Senegal’s GDP by 3% and unlock $15 billion in trade value by 2035. Construction alone will provide over 1,800 jobs, while long-term operations are projected to support 2.3 million jobs across Senegal, including 22,000 directly tied to increased trade activity.
With these ambitious developments, the Port of Ndayane is poised to establish Senegal as a cornerstone of African and global trade, fostering economic growth, job creation, and a stronger global presence for the nation.