In The Spotlight
Bolt Business, the corporate mobility solution from Bolt, has reported double-digit growth in Nigeria over the past year
The company said in a statement that it underscores increasing demand from firms seeking smarter, more efficient ways to manage employee transportation and business travel.
Over the past 12 months, growth was driven by expanding adoption across multiple industries, a rise in demand from small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and an increasing number of organisations seeking alternatives to managing in-house transport fleets.
“Businesses today are looking beyond transportation, they’re looking for smarter ways to optimise operations and manage costs,” said Isaac Iroko, country manager, Bolt for Business Nigeria.
“We've seen organisations across different sectors embrace Bolt Business because it gives them a simple, reliable and transparent way to manage employee travel, whether it's daily commutes, client meetings or business trips. This growth demonstrates that corporate mobility is becoming an increasingly important part of business efficiency in Nigeria.”
Bolt Business serves organisations across a range of industries, including financial services, technology, healthcare, professional services, manufacturing, logistics, media, real estate and fast-growing consumer businesses.
Its client portfolio includes the likes of First Bank, Access Bank, PricewaterhouseCoopers, Boston Consulting Group, Interswitch, Glovo and Pfizer Specialties.
Others clients include Chowdeck, Premium Times Centre for Investigative Journalism, News Central, IWOSAN Lagoon Hospitals, Avon Healthcare, UAC Foods, MRS, China Harbour Engineering Company Nigeria, CAPPA & D'Alberto and ValueJet.
In its statement, Bolt Business said its recent growth reflects a broader shift in how Nigerian businesses approach corporate mobility.
Rather than maintaining expensive vehicle fleets or relying on fragmented transport arrangements, more organisations are adopting digital mobility platforms that offer greater transparency, control and operational efficiency.
Unlike traditional fleet management, Bolt Business enables companies to centralise transportation through a single platform, providing features such as centralised billing, trip reporting, spending controls and real-time visibility into employee travel.
These capabilities help businesses improve oversight while reducing the administrative burden associated with corporate transportation.
The company intends to strengthen relationships with existing customers by introducing solutions tailored to industries with frequent employee mobility needs, including healthcare, financial services, legal services and logistics.
“Nigeria's business landscape is evolving rapidly, and organisations are under increasing pressure to operate more efficiently,” Isaac added.
“We see a significant opportunity to help businesses replace inefficient transport processes with smarter mobility solutions that improve visibility, simplify expense management and support business growth. Our focus remains on building products that create value for organisations of every size while delivering a seamless experience for their employees.”
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AfDB backs Morocco's first integrated LFP battery gigafactory
The Société d'Exploitation du Transgabonais (SETRAG) — the concessionaire of Gabon's national railway network — has signed a €312mn financing agreement with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and Proparco
The funds will be deployed for the continued modernisation of the Trans-Gabon Railway, a strategic asset for the West African country’s economic and social development.
SETRAG's shareholders include Eramet Comilog (51%), Meridiam 40%, and the Gabonese State 9%.
The latest financing complements public funding provided by the French Development Agency (AFD) and the European Union to Gabon to finance its share of the broader Gabon Railway Modernisation and Safety Programme (PMS).
Christian Magni, CEO of SETRAG, said the successful completion of the financing marks a “decisive milestone” for both the concessionaire and Gabon.
“It reflects the confidence our financing partners have in our business model and operational trajectory,” said Magni.
“With this support, together with the ongoing operational backing of our shareholders, we now have the means to accelerate the safety upgrades and full modernisation of the Trans-Gabon Railway, strengthening its position as a benchmark logistics corridor in Central Africa and as a driver of sustainable development for local communities and the national economy.”
SETRAG is responsible for railway superstructure equipment, including rails, sleepers, ballast, signaling systems.
As the delegated project owner, it carries out maintenance and renewal works on behalf of, and in the name of, the granting authority, the Gabonese state.
The state itself is responsible for maintaining public infrastructure assets, including bridges, hydraulic infrastructure and passenger transport equipment.
The Proparco–IFC–SETRAG financing agreement forms part of Phase III of the Trans-Gabon Railway PMS, which includes €225mn in new financing and the refinancing of €87mn from the previous phases.
The programme will continue the renewal of the 648-kilometre railway line linking Owendo, on the Atlantic coast, to Franceville in eastern Gabon.
It also includes the modernisation of the railway’s infrastructure and systems to enhance safety and capacity, while supporting the diversification of rail services beyond the mining sector, particularly for passenger and general freight transport.
Since the launch of the programme, 457 kilometres of track have been renewed with concrete sleepers, and 186 kilometres have already been fitted with new 60kg rails.
In regions where alternative transport options are often limited or unavailable, the Trans-Gabon Railway is a vital economic lifeline, contributing approximately 20% of Gabon’s GDP.
It provides an essential public transport service for communities in remote and landlocked areas and also plays a critical role in transporting manganese, a mineral for which Gabon is one of the world's leading producers.
Manganese is a critical raw material that is essential to the energy transition and global industrial value chains.
“Reliable transport infrastructure is essential to private sector development, regional competitiveness and job creation,” said Ethiopis Tafara, IFC’s regional vice-president for Africa.
“Through this partnership…IFC is supporting the modernisation of a strategic railway infrastructure that will strengthen supply chains, improve connectivity for communities and businesses, and support Gabon's long-term economic diversification.”
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DP World advances Port of Ndayane construction
Propak West Africa is a leading meeting place for West Africa's packaging and manufacturing industries. (Image source: Propek Africa)
West Africa's packaging and processing industries are undergoing rapid transformation as manufacturers respond to growing consumer demand, evolving sustainability requirements and increasing pressure to improve operational efficiency
Across the region, companies are investing in automation, digital technologies and smarter production processes to remain competitive while meeting changing market expectations.
Against this backdrop, Propak West Africa will return to the Landmark Centre in Lagos, Nigeria, from 8–10 September, bringing together suppliers, manufacturers and industry professionals from the packaging, plastics, print, labelling and food processing sectors. More than a traditional trade exhibition, the event provides a platform for businesses to evaluate new technologies, exchange technical knowledge and build partnerships that support long-term growth.
Why packaging innovation matters
Packaging is becoming an increasingly strategic part of manufacturing, influencing everything from product protection and shelf life to supply chain efficiency and sustainability. Manufacturers are also under growing pressure to reduce material waste, improve recyclability and adopt circular economy practices, while maintaining productivity and controlling costs. Events such as Propak West Africa enable businesses to compare technologies, learn from industry peers and identify practical solutions to these evolving challenges.
Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the latest machinery, packaging materials, processing equipment and manufacturing technologies, while engaging directly with technical specialists to discuss solutions tailored to regional production requirements.
Summit to address manufacturing trends and industry challenges
Running alongside the exhibition, the Propak West Africa Summit will offer a dedicated conference programme designed for production, packaging and manufacturing professionals across the region.
The summit will feature keynote presentations, expert panel discussions, interactive workshops and real-world industry case studies, providing practical insights into packaging innovation, food processing technologies, manufacturing efficiency, sustainability and market developments shaping West Africa's industrial sector.
The director general of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Segun Ajayi-Kadir, will deliver the welcome address during the opening ceremony, while Alexander Gendis, CEO of Beta Glass, has been confirmed as a keynote speaker. Their participation highlights the growing importance of the event within West Africa's manufacturing and packaging industries.
Other confirmed speakers include Dr Markus Grumann, managing director of Miho Inspection Systems; Titus Gado, manufacturing director at Chi Limited; Prof Olugbenga Ogunmoyela, president of Cafsani; A'rese Lucia Onaghise, executive director at the Food & Beverage Recycling Alliance; and Saheed Kareem, factory engineering manager at Nestlé.
Circular economy takes centre stage
One of the major highlights of the final day will be an industry stakeholder session hosted by the Recycling Association of Nigeria (RAN) titled "From Market Placement to Material Recovery: Closing the Data Gap in Nigeria's Circular Packaging Value Chain."
The discussion will bring together stakeholders from across the packaging value chain to examine one of the sector's most pressing challenges—bridging the gap between the volume of packaging introduced into the market and the amount of material ultimately recovered through Nigeria's recycling infrastructure.
The session reflects a broader industry shift towards circular economy initiatives, extended producer responsibility (EPR) programmes and improved resource recovery, all of which are becoming increasingly important for manufacturers seeking to meet sustainability commitments while reducing environmental impact.
The Propak West Africa Summit is free to attend, although delegates are required to register in advance. The KPMG breakfast session on the second day will be held on an invitation-only basis.
A hub for technology, investment and collaboration
As manufacturing across West Africa continues to expand, demand is growing for advanced production equipment, automated packaging systems, digital quality control and more sustainable packaging materials. This is creating new opportunities for technology providers, equipment manufacturers and industrial solution specialists to support the region's evolving manufacturing landscape.
By bringing together international exhibitors, regional manufacturers, industry associations and technology experts, Propak West Africa has established itself as one of the region's leading business platforms for packaging and processing industries. Beyond showcasing new products and equipment, the exhibition encourages technology transfer, knowledge sharing, business networking and strategic partnerships that can accelerate industrial development across West Africa.
Commenting on the event, Mark Anderson, Portfolio Director at Montgomery Group Africa, organisers of the show, said, "The pace of change within the manufacturing and packaging sectors means businesses need access not only to the latest technologies, but also to the knowledge, partnerships and practical insights that support informed decision-making."
"Propak West Africa is designed to connect global and local solution providers with local industry, creating opportunities for businesses to discover new technologies, exchange ideas and build valuable partnerships. By combining a comprehensive exhibition with a practical, industry-focused conference, the show offers visitors the opportunity to discover new technologies, learn from industry experts and build valuable business connections - all in one place."
As manufacturers continue to invest in smarter production, sustainable packaging and digital transformation, events such as Propak West Africa are expected to play an increasingly important role in connecting businesses with the technologies, expertise and partnerships needed to improve competitiveness and support the long-term growth of West Africa's manufacturing sector.
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In the final webinar of its African Review-hosted 2023 campaign, Convergent Group explored its modern, eco-friendly concrete solutions for African projects
Such solutions – delivered to cut maintenance costs by eliminating hazardous silicate products – were showcased by company experts in the form of Jean-Claude Biard, SEO of Convergent Group SA; Mputu Schmidt, former CEO of Convergent Group SA and founder of Bondeko MB (exclusive distributor of Convergent Group in Africa); Carlos Garcia, technical and sales for ADI Group (Spanish distributor for Convergent Group); and Amritpal Singh Sura, external consultant for flooring treatments, former distributor of Convergent products in the Middle East.
“A number of projects we were doing in the Middle East required protection,” remarked Sura. “Longevity of protection requires a system which basically impregnates and becomes a densified surface as opposed to something which is topical and lifts off due to moisture migration. I found that being exposed to Convergent, it was important to stay focused on those systems in the Middle East. Jean-Claude, Mputu and I met several times in Dubai and there was emphasis on providing systems which were affordable and still ending up having a robust, lasting longevity of product. So you are not spending money all the time in order to maintain the finishes which you have already paid for.”
Over the course of the session, the participants guided the audience through the potential of cutting-edge lithium silicate technology for enhancing the protection of concrete surfaces, maximising cost-effectiveness and meeting sustainability targets.
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In a comprehensive webinar hosted by African Review, a panel of professionals associated with Convergent Group explored new generation lithium silicate technology and why it is emerging as the optimum solution for concrete floor protection.
Robert Daniels, editor of African Review, was joined by Jean-Claude Biard, CEO of Convergent Group; Mputu Schmidt, former CEO of Convergent and founder of Bondeko MB, an exclusive distributor of Convergent; Hicham Sofyani, president of Texol; Carlos Garcia, technical and sales for ADI Group; and Marc Puig, commercial manager of Comace Import.
Each providing a unique angle, the panellists combined to provide a masterclass around concrete treatments and the increasing challenges around them, explaining to attendees how to choose the right formula for their requirements and touching on issues such as why lithium densifiers are better than sodium and potassium densifiers.
Throughout the session, those watching were treated to informative case studies showcasing how Convergent eco-friendly products are increasing abrasion resistance, raising ease of maintenance, and ensuring the highest quality gloss retention.
By the end of the webinar, a majority of attendees (many of which had not had much experience with Convergent) expressed their interest in using the company’s new generation lithium silicate technology with the rest indicating their desire to learn more about Convergent and its products. Watch the webinar, in full, to discover why viewers were convinced and learn more about advanced floor care solutions for your operations.
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Presenting on an African Review-hosted webinar, Martin Provencher, global industry principal for mining, metals and materials at AVEVA, explored the digital transformation of mining operations and its impact on sustainability.
“Sustainability is becoming a key aspect for mining operations,” remarked Provencher. “If we look at the latest EY research on the top ten business risks and opportunities for mining and metals globally in 2023, ESG remains at the top. Of course, most companies have environmental goals or are expected to reach a net zero emission by 2050, which is a pretty aggressive target. Many of them are targeting 30% reduction by 2030; seven years from now. So there is a lot of action that needs to take place quickly to get there. It is possible to get there, but we need to make sure we are doing this correctly.”
Fast becoming a huge part of ESG initiatives is fleet electrification where particular progress is being made in underground mines. While some countries are certainly more advanced than others here, Provencher noted that 40% of total emissions from the mining industry come from diesel trucks, making EVs a very attractive low-hanging fruit for companies to pursue.
There are, however, a number of challenges associated with bringing in electric vehicles which remains a barrier for introduction. One of the predominant reasons, is the limited range of EVs against diesel counterparts. To mitigate this, Provencher continued, data management is key and ensuring a strong grasp of real-time information coming in will show operators when machinery needs to be charged, allowing them to plan effectively for maximum efficiency on site.
Indeed, this is but a small advantage that digitalisation can bring to the mining industry as it grapples to meet ESG goals while achieving production targets. By getting a better grip of their data and using it to empower tools such as artificial intelligence, advanced analytics and machine learning, companies can achieve tangible benefits such as reduce downtime, enhance worker safety, cut operating costs and, of course, ensure compliance with environmental regulations and targets.
Through the course of the webinar, Provencher outlined this in more detail and explored AVEVA’s suite of cutting-edge software solutions, specifically designed to help mining companies make progress on their digitalisation journey and empower their operations.
Watch the full webinar, completed with detailed case studies and an insightful Q&A session.
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Convergent, in association with African Review, has held a detailed webinar exploring the usage and effectiveness of lithium silicates and densifiers over traditional methods of concrete surface management which often struggle to meet the increasing challenges posed by concrete surface management.
Convergent experts including Mputu Schmidt, CEO of Convergent; Carlos Garcia, product manager end-user solutions, construction chemicals, Spain and Portugal for the RD Group; Matteo Mozzarelli, CEO of concrete Solutions Italia; and Jean-Claude Biard, global senior executive for the Convergent Group, presented across the session.
Together, they delved into the latest cost-effective application methods for long lasting finishing of concrete that can help reduce maintenance costs and avoid unexpected repair action. In addition, they examined the advancements in technologies that can sustain increased abrasion resistant stains and ensure gloss retention to the highest quality.
As part of the webinar, the representatives explored case studies including a case in DRC where a medical centre had been constructed with a low-quality concrete floor. The customer was considering completely replacing the floor but instead, Convergent put forward a special treatment with its 244+ Pentra-Sil lithium hardener, densifier and sealer. With this solution, Convergent can increase the hardness of a surface by up to 40% and therefore saved the customer significant recuperation costs over a complete replacement. Convergent were happy to report that the solution was perfect for the facility and the customer was pleased to avoid the extra construction work that would have been required for a complete replacement.
Watch the full webinar, including more information about Convergent’s innovative solutions.
Clarke Energy to supply 4MW trigeneration plant powered by INNIO’s Jenbacher gas engines (Image source: Clarke Energy)
Clarke Energy has landed a contract with Capraci to deliver a 4 MW natural gas-fuelled trigeneration power plant at its production facility in Abidjan
The project will help improve energy security, lower operating costs and support the long-term environmental objectives of Capraci, one of Côte d'Ivoire's leading pasta manufacturers.
“This project perfectly embodies our mission: supporting African industries with high-performance, reliable and sustainable energy solutions,” said Jacques Soulayrac, managing director France & Africa at Clarke Energy.
“We are not simply delivering a power plant; we are providing a long-term competitiveness lever.”
The trigeneration facility will be powered by INNIO's Jenbacher gas engines, with Clarke Energy to design and deliver the balance of plant.
The new system is engineered to generate electricity, heat and cooling from a single fuel source, enabling Capraci to significantly improve overall energy performance.
A high-efficiency exhaust heat recovery system will produce 130°C superheated water used directly in pasta processing, while an absorption chiller will provide 11°C chilled water for on–site cooling.
Together, these integrated functions will help streamline production, reduce emissions and improve the plant's energy footprint.
After installation, Clarke Energy will operate and maintain the equipment under a long-term service agreement, ensuring continuous performance, high availability and sustained technical support.
“This partnership is part of a long-term vision,” added Soulayrac. “Our objective is to ensure operational reliability and long-term peace of mind for Capraci.”
Capraci's investment forms part of a broader drive to modernise industrial infrastructure in Côte d'Ivoire and further strengthens Clarke Energy's role as a trusted partner for high-efficiency energy solutions across West Africa.
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On-site power for Gabon flare gas
Caterpillar has brought together more than 400 customers and dealers from across Europe, the Middle East and Africa for its fourth Construction and Quarry Technology Days, held at the Caterpillar Demonstration & Learning Centre in Málaga, Spain
The two-week event welcomed representatives from 15 Cat dealers to explore the company's latest technologies and their practical applications across construction and quarrying operations.
The programme began with opening remarks from Kristin Gaskill, Caterpillar vice-president of technology in Construction Industries, followed by a live product demonstration focused on technology-driven solutions. Over the following days, attendees participated in guided sessions across five dedicated technology areas, allowing them to see how these solutions perform in real-world conditions and how they can be integrated into their own projects.
Gaskill highlighted Caterpillar's ongoing commitment to advancing digital transformation within the industry.
"Our focus is clear: accelerating technology and digital adoption to deliver measurable outcomes for our customers."
"This week in Málaga is a powerful example of how Caterpillar and Cat Dealers are working together to solve customer challenges using technology & digital solutions in the dirt and back office. Our goal is to ensure technology is easy to buy, easy to use and delivers value at scale. Ultimately, we’re here to help customers unlock new and different business outcomes by partnering with them for long-term success on the job site."
Throughout the event, Caterpillar demonstrated a range of technologies designed to address critical operational priorities. Featured solutions included Better Data for Better Decisions, Perfecting Payload, Safer Jobsites, Remote Site Control with Cat Command, and Cat 2D and 3D Grade technologies.
Together, these technologies are intended to help customers improve productivity, enhance jobsite safety and simplify operations while addressing one of the industry's ongoing challenges: attracting and retaining skilled equipment operators.
Now in its fourth edition, Construction and Quarry Technology Days continues to serve as a platform for strengthening collaboration between Caterpillar, its dealer network and customers across the region.
The event also provides opportunities for customers to exchange experiences, learn from industry peers and gain greater confidence in implementing new technologies. With support from the global Cat dealer network, participants can better understand how to scale digital solutions across their operations.
As digitalisation continues to reshape the construction and quarrying sectors, the Málaga event demonstrates Caterpillar's focus on helping customers transform data, connectivity and automation into measurable operational and business benefits.
Successful underground dewatering relies on careful planning, specialised equipment and precise installation to manage restricted access, high pressures and complex logistics. (Image source: Cementation Africa)
Cementation Africa is encouraging mining companies to prioritise underground dewatering during the early stages of mine development, emphasising that proactive planning is essential for managing groundwater inflows efficiently throughout a mine's lifecycle
According to the company, successful dewatering strategies begin during the feasibility phase, where hydrogeological investigations provide critical data on anticipated groundwater volumes. This information forms the basis for designing systems capable of supporting long-term underground operations.
"Hydrogeological studies form part of the mine’s initial feasibility work, with drill holes to understand what volumes the mine is likely to encounter," explained John Goulding, study manager mine engineering at Cementation Africa.
"Cementation Africa, as a leading underground mining contractor, uses this data as the basis for planning a dewatering strategy in a multi-disciplinary engineering process that intersects mine design, shaft infrastructure, power systems and operational logistics."
The company says its approach combines engineering design, construction expertise and operational knowledge to deliver integrated dewatering systems that address the practical challenges encountered in underground mining.
"Our strength lies in our ability to design and execute dewatering solutions across the full project lifecycle - from feasibility through to the operation of pump stations," Goulding said. "This includes the civil, mechanical, electrical and control design aspects that must come together in an underground dewatering system."
By incorporating dewatering requirements at the earliest stages of project planning, mine developers can ensure that pump stations, settling facilities and water storage infrastructure are appropriately located and sized to handle expected groundwater inflows. Early design also allows systems to be configured with sufficient flexibility to accommodate changing mining conditions over time.
Louis du Plessis, project engineer mine engineering at Cementation Africa, noted that the company frequently supports clients during the feasibility stage by providing engineering studies and technical option assessments.
"By conducting studies and technical assessments to guide mines’ decision-making, we can help them determine the most appropriate approach before committing to major infrastructure investments," said Du Plessis.
He added that underground dewatering systems should always be tailored to the specific operating conditions and infrastructure of each mine.
"This means working very closely with our clients, understanding what they need, and designing around that," he said. "This collaborative process leads to engineering solutions aligned with operational realities rather than purely theoretical designs."
The company also highlights the importance of carefully positioning dewatering infrastructure underground. Pump stations must remain accessible for safe maintenance, while pipelines need to be routed through shafts and haulages without interfering with other essential services such as power distribution and mine ventilation.
Despite detailed hydrogeological investigations and modelling, groundwater inflows can remain difficult to predict accurately.
"Even with studies and modelling, there remains considerable uncertainty about the volumes of water that miners will encounter during development and mining," Goulding said. "This makes it vital to design dewatering strategies that can adapt to varying conditions rather than simply operating at a fixed capacity."
To improve operational resilience, dewatering systems can incorporate spare pumping capacity or be designed for future expansion. Flexible configurations also enable water to be transferred between different mining levels as operations extend deeper underground, ensuring efficient groundwater management throughout the life of the mine.
DP World completes major dredging works 13 months early, advancing Senegal's Port of Ndayane towards its planned 2028 completion
DP World has completed the major dredging works for the Port of Ndayane in Senegal 13 months ahead of schedule, marking a significant milestone in one of West Africa's largest port infrastructure projects
The achievement enables the next phase of marine and civil construction to begin earlier than planned, supporting the port's targeted completion in 2028.
The US$1.2 billion development is expected to become Senegal's principal deep-water container gateway, increasing capacity for international trade while strengthening the country's position as a strategic logistics hub for West Africa. As regional economies continue investing in modern transport infrastructure to accommodate larger vessels and growing cargo volumes, projects such as Ndayane are becoming increasingly important for improving supply chain resilience and supporting long-term economic growth.
Complex dredging completed under challenging conditions
The completed programme involved dredging a five-kilometre navigation channel, a turning basin and an 875-metre berth pocket designed to accommodate some of the world's largest container vessels, including two Triple E-class ships simultaneously. Two of the world's largest cutter suction dredgers were deployed for the operation, reflecting both the scale and technical complexity of the works.
Engineering teams encountered particularly demanding geological conditions throughout the project. More than 95% of the dredged material consisted of solid rock, including formations exceeding 100 megapascals in compressive strength—significantly harder than material typically encountered during major port developments. Despite these conditions, the dredging was completed without blasting by using advanced cutter suction dredging techniques, reducing environmental impacts while maintaining safe construction practices.
Originally scheduled for completion in September 2027, the dredging programme concluded well ahead of schedule following early mobilisation in December 2024. The accelerated timeline allows quay construction and other critical marine works to commence sooner, helping maintain project momentum. More than 1,000 people are currently employed directly on the development, with 1,043 personnel working on site as construction progresses.
Mohammed Akoojee, CEO and managing director for Africa at DP World, said, "Completing major dredging works 13 months ahead of schedule is a significant milestone for the Port of Ndayane and a testament to the expertise, commitment and collaboration of everyone involved in delivering this project safely. This achievement allows us to accelerate the next phase of construction toward the port's completion in 2028, while reinforcing our long-term commitment to Senegal and our confidence in Africa’s future as a growing force in global supply chains. As Senegal's largest single private investment, this US$1.2bn project will create lasting economic value by strengthening trade, supporting jobs, improving connectivity and unlocking future growth opportunities across the region."
Expanding Senegal's maritime capacity
The Port of Ndayane is being developed approximately 50 km from Dakar to address the growing capacity constraints at the existing Port of Dakar, which has operated close to its physical limits in recent years. The new facility is designed to accommodate larger vessels while improving cargo handling efficiency and supporting future trade growth across the region.
Since assuming operations at the Port of Dakar in 2008, DP World has invested approximately US$340mn to modernise the terminal and expand its operational capacity. During that period, container throughput increased from 265,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in 2008 to 850,000 TEUs in 2025, while vessel waiting times were reduced from around 35 hours to near zero.
These improvements have contributed to the Port of Dakar becoming the highest-ranked port in Sub-Saharan Africa for efficiency in the World Bank's Container Port Performance Index, highlighting the growing importance of modern port infrastructure in facilitating regional and international trade.
Clarence Rodrigues, CEO of DP World Dakar, expressed, "This achievement represents a pivotal moment in delivering transformational infrastructure for Senegal. The Port of Ndayane will enhance national competitiveness, unlock opportunities for local businesses, and drive sustainable job creation and skills development, supporting 2.3 million jobs through trade and improving access to critical goods and staples for 7.8 million people. We are proud to partner with the Government of Senegal and local stakeholders to establish a gateway for West Africa that positions Senegal as a premier logistics and trade hub, while delivering meaningful economic benefits to communities nationwide."
Strategic investment for regional trade
Modern deep-water ports are playing an increasingly important role across Africa as countries seek to improve logistics efficiency, strengthen export competitiveness and attract international investment. By accommodating larger container vessels and enhancing inland connectivity, these facilities help reduce supply chain bottlenecks while supporting regional integration under initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Construction at Ndayane has now progressed to the next phase of marine and civil engineering works as DP World continues development towards the planned 2028 completion.
Juan Carlos Sahdala, group chief planning & project officer, stated, "Capital dredging is one of the most technically demanding phases of any port development. Completing these works ahead of schedule reflects meticulous planning, outstanding execution and strong collaboration, enabling us to accelerate the marine and civil works that will bring the Port of Ndayane into operation in 2028."
With major dredging now complete, the project moves into a critical construction phase that will shape Senegal's next-generation maritime gateway. Once operational, the Port of Ndayane is expected to expand the country's container handling capacity, strengthen regional logistics networks and support long-term trade growth across West Africa.
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Africa has an opportunity to convert geopolitical tensions and shifting global trade patterns into a catalyst for industrialisation and long-term economic resilience, according to a new Afreximbank report
Leveraging Geopolitics for Trade and Industrialisation in Global Africa examines trade and economic developments across the continent and globally, and outlines strategies for African nations to benefit from supply chain realignments and changing geopolitical dynamics.
“Africa stands at a critical juncture,” said Dr Yemi Kale, group chief economist and managing director of research and trade intelligence at Afreximbank.
“Geopolitical tensions and economic fragmentation are reshaping global trade patterns, but they also present a historic opportunity for the continent. By strategically leveraging these shifts, Africa can build a more resilient, competitive and inclusive economic future.”
Despite a challenging global backdrop, the report highlights Africa’s strong recent economic performance.
While global economic growth slowed to 3.4% in 2025 and is projected to ease further to 3.1% in 2026, Africa’s real GDP growth accelerated from 3.4% in 2024 to 4.5% in 2025, outperforming the global average.
Africa’s merchandise trade also expanded by 6.1% to approximately US$1.5 trillion, while aggregate inflation fell significantly from 21.6% in 2024 to 13.1% in 2025.
According to Afreximbank, these gains reflect improved macroeconomic management, ongoing policy reforms and the role of development finance institutions in supporting economic stability.
However, the report warns that significant structural challenges remain.
Africa’s trade finance gap is estimated at approximately US$74bn in 2025, limiting the continent’s ability to fully capitalise on trade and industrial opportunities.
The situation is compounded by foreign exchange constraints and a continued decline in correspondent banking relationships.
The report also notes that evolving shipping routes and persistent disruptions in global logistics networks are increasing freight costs and extending delivery times, particularly for economies dependent on imported inputs and external markets.
To strengthen resilience, Afreximbank identifies accelerated implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), expansion of the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) and reforms to the global financial architecture as key priorities.
The report notes that stronger industrial ecosystems, increased intra-African trade and sustained financial support will be critical if the continent is to transform geopolitical disruption into sustainable and inclusive economic growth.
“It is imperative for the continent to act decisively to strengthen regional value chains, deepen industrial capacity, expand access to trade finance, and accelerate continental integration,” said Kale, adding that Africa “cannot afford to delay.”
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Supply chain boost for African businesses
Arridex has officially commissioned its Omnifactory in Lagos, marking the launch of West Africa’s first multi-technology industrial additive manufacturing facility
The commissioning ceremony was led by Babajide Sanwo-Olu, governor of Lagos state, and brought together senior government representatives, industry stakeholders, members of the diplomatic community and investment delegates participating in the Invest Lagos 3.0 forum.
The Invest Lagos delegation featured participants from the forum’s panel discussion on The Future of Technology and Innovation, where Kayode Adeleke, group CEO of Arridex, highlighted the importance of technology and innovation in advancing Africa’s industrialisation. His insights were shaped by Arridex’s operational experience across sectors including oil and gas, maritime, aerospace, defence, construction and manufacturing.
The Arridex Omnifactory brings together several additive manufacturing technologies within one facility, including Laser Powder Bed Fusion (L-PBF), Cold Spray, Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) and Selective Laser Sintering (SLS). The facility enables the production of industrial components, spare parts and enhanced part designs for critical industries, while its large-format manufacturing capabilities support the creation of full-scale marine components and other large industrial structures.
The commissioning of the Omnifactory represents the transformation of two decades of accumulated expertise into a dedicated industrial manufacturing platform. Arridex commenced operations in 2005 as an asset integrity company serving Nigeria’s oil and gas industry before expanding its capabilities into maritime, defence, construction, technology and aerospace sectors. The company has achieved zero lost-time incidents across more than seven million operational man hours.
The next chapter of global manufacturing can be written from Lagos
For Nigeria and West Africa, the Arridex Omnifactory addresses long-standing challenges associated with dependence on imported industrial components. Companies operating ageing infrastructure have often faced extended procurement timelines, complex international supply chains and the growing challenge of sourcing legacy parts from manufacturers that may no longer exist. Through the Omnifactory, Arridex will enable these components to be manufactured on demand within Lagos.
Arridex has received Pioneer Status in additive manufacturing from the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC). The company is also the first organisation qualified by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) for additive manufacturing deployment in the oil and gas sector. In addition, its joint venture partnership with the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) supports the local production of military-grade additive manufactured components.
Further strengthening its position in the global additive manufacturing ecosystem, Arridex is the first African member of the Additive Manufacturer Green Trade Association (AMGTA). The company is also a Designated Strategic Partner of the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council (CWEIC), with Kayode Adeleke serving on the CWEIC Global Advisory Council.
"Today, I opened West Africa's first multi-technology industrial additive manufacturing facility in Lagos. By producing industrial components and spare parts here in Lagos, Arridex is helping to reduce our dependence on imports, strengthening critical industries and supporting economic growth," commented Sanwo-Olu.
"I commend the Arridex team for their vision and commitment to building solutions that serve not only Nigeria but the wider African continent. Lagos will continue to support investments that create opportunities, grow local capacity and position our state as a hub for innovation and industry."
“We did not set out to build the biggest company, but a resilient one. For over two decades, we have chosen the harder path, and that is to make in Africa what others import, to meet global standards without exception, and to put purpose before profit. The Arridex Omnifactory is where that conviction becomes infrastructure. The name on the door is new, but the work behind it is not. We are not stopping here. By the first quarter of 2027, we will commission the Arridex Mega Omnifactory, which will stand among the largest single-site industrial additive manufacturing facilities in the world. The next chapter of global manufacturing can be written from Lagos. We are building it.” concluded Adeleke.
