Port of Berbera’s development project gets underway

TIN newws:  Global trade enabler DP World has celebrated its 30-year port concession for the management and development of a multipurpose port project at Berbera, Republic of Somaliland which started on 2 March 2017. A ceremony was held to mark the occasion of new phase of development for the country.

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

DP World Group Chairman & CEO Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, said that this investment is expected to boost regional economy and it is aligned with the company’s vision to enable trade and to facilitate growth by helping African countries develop their infrastructure that connects them to global markets.

President of Somaliland Ahmed Mohamed Mohamoud Silanyo, 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.”

DP World Berbera CEO Ibrahim Al Hammadi, announced that the next steps include the construction of a new quay and yard, implementation of a terminal layout and new yard equipment.

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. 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.