DP World to invest $442 for development of Berbera Port

May 12, 2017: Global trade enabler DP World has celebrated its 30-year port concession for the management and development of a multi-purpose port project at Berbera, Republic of Somaliland. 

DP World Berbera compliments the company’s investment in Djibouti and will also serve landlocked countries in the Horn of Africa. The investment of up to USD 442 million will consist of two phases, the first being the building of a 400-meter quay and 250,000 square meter yard extension as well as the development of a free zone to create a new regional trading hub. 

Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, group chairman and CEO, DP World, said, “This is part of our vision to act as an enabler of trade and to facilitate growth by helping African countries develop their infrastructure that connects them to global markets. 

These are exciting times for our industry and for Africa, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to be an integral part of Somaliland’s development. 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.”

Ahmed Mohamed Mohamoud Silanyo, President of Somaliland, said, “This DP World investment in the Port of Berbera will strengthen the relationship between the Republic of Somaliland and the UAE which existed for many centuries in the past. Additionally, it will bring back and highlight the commercial position and importance of the Port of Berbera as a Red Sea gateway for the Middle East and Africa."

Ibrahim Al Hammadi, CEO, DP World Berbera, said, “We have found the people of Berbera to be welcoming and industrious and I would like to thank the staff here for their support and enthusiasm as we start our plans to modernise the port and upgrade its facilities.

Our next steps will be to construct a new quay and yard, implement a terminal layout and add new yard equipment. We’re also working on a long-term strategic plan for sustainability projects. We look forward to working together with the people of Berbera to restore its historical role as a major trade hub on the Red Sea.”

Since beginning operations in early March, DP World has retained all 713 permanent employees and begun training and staff development to prepare them for roles in a modern port.

DP World Berbera supports the local community with visits and engagements to 12 local schools, the Fisheries and Maritime Academy and Berbera Hospital. Meanwhile, DP World is working closely with the local government to invest in sustainable solutions tackling water scarcity, having already delivered 4.5 million litres of water to 15,000 local families.