sailinginto the future
Global logistics giant DP World has highlighted the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as a key focus of its $2.5 billion global investment drive this year, which aims to create nearly 5,000 new jobs across four continents. The company’s landmark project in the DRC, the development of the Port of Banana, will generate 500 construction jobs as the nation builds its first deep-sea port, a milestone expected to transform the country’s trade landscape.
Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, emphasized the broader impact of these investments, stating:
“Trade has the potential to transform people’s lives, and these new jobs show one of the ways that works in practice. When the projects are complete, the construction workers will leave behind a legacy of world-class logistics infrastructure that will benefit communities, customers, and economies for the next 50 years.”
The Port of Banana is seen as a game-changer for the DRC, a country with vast natural resources but limited direct access to global shipping routes. Currently, most of the nation’s international trade relies on congested regional ports in neighboring countries, leading to delays and high costs. The new facility will allow the DRC to handle large container ships directly, boosting exports and improving competitiveness.
Across Africa, DP World is also investing in Senegal, where its deep-sea port project at Ndayane is creating 600 jobs. Together, these initiatives are designed to strengthen Africa’s logistics capacity and unlock new economic opportunities.
Beyond the continent, the company is simultaneously expanding operations in India, Britain, and Ecuador. India leads with over 2,500 new jobs linked to the Tuna Tekra terminal and rail projects, while DP World’s $1 billion upgrade of London Gateway is set to add 1,000 jobs. In Ecuador, the expansion of the Posorja port will create 400 positions.
Once completed, the Port of Banana will not only provide direct employment but is expected to stimulate thousands of indirect jobs across the DRC through increased trade activity and industrial growth.
DP World’s global footprint already includes its flagship Jebel Ali Freezone in Dubai, which directly employs 160,000 people. With its strategic investments, including the DRC’s first deep-sea port, DP World is reinforcing supply chains and delivering long-term economic transformation for its host nations.`