DP World selects Mota-Engil for Banana Port development. (Image source: DP World)

DP World, a global leader in trade and logistics, has appointed Mota-Engil, a highly experienced construction firm, to spearhead the development of the Banana Port

This crucial project will enhance the DRC’s role as a major trade hub, modernising infrastructure, lowering business costs, and strengthening economic self-sufficiency.

Situated in Kongo Central province along the Atlantic coast, the Banana Port represents a significant investment in the country’s trade infrastructure. As the DRC’s only maritime gateway for containerised cargo, it will streamline trade operations, consolidate administrative and customs procedures, and provide the government with greater oversight of foreign trade activities.

Transforming DRC trade 

The project will be developed in multiple phases. The first phase will include a 600-meter quay, storage facilities spanning 30 hectares, and a handling capacity of 450,000 TEUs per year, capable of accommodating the world’s largest vessels. The second phase will extend the quay wall by more than two kilometres. DP World is leading the investment in partnership with British International Investment (BII), the UK’s development finance institution and impact investor.

The port’s construction will involve numerous companies, including local businesses, and generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs, creating new opportunities for Congolese workers and enterprises. As the DRC’s first fully equipped deep-sea port, it will reduce transportation costs, improve trade efficiency, and support industries such as agriculture and manufacturing.

Mota-Engil, a prominent engineering and construction company with decades of experience in large-scale infrastructure projects, brings its expertise in port development, transportation, and logistics. With a strong track record across Africa, the company has successfully delivered transformative projects that drive economic expansion and regional connectivity. Its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and top-tier quality aligns with DP World’s vision for the Banana Port.

Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, group chairman and CEO of DP World, highlighted the significance of this project, “The Banana Port is a transformative project that will reshape the trade and logistics landscape of the Democratic Republic of Congo. By partnering with Mota-Engil, we are ensuring that this world-class infrastructure is built to the highest standards, fostering economic growth and creating new opportunities for the Congolese people. DP World remains committed to delivering a world-class port that empowers the people of the DRC. This project will transform trade, create jobs, and strengthen the country's economy for generations to come.”

By joining forces with Mota-Engil, DP World reinforces its dedication to providing high-quality infrastructure that supports the DRC’s long-term economic growth and improves the livelihoods of millions of Congolese citizens.

Also read: Dangote to build Nigeria’s biggest port

Yutong unveils the new D14 bus. (Image source: Yutong Bus)

China’s Yutong Bus has revealed its next-generation D14 coach for the Africa market at a launch in Tanzania

In a statement, the company said the new D14 bus offers both space and design upgrades on previous models available for the Africa market, where it has been operating for over two decades.

In that time, Yutong has established a network across the continent, building a sales and service network in nearly 50 countries and selling a total of almost 22,000 buses.

Yutong's previous generation of front-engine buses has earned a strong reputation for reliability, with some vehicles exceeding 1 million km while maintaining stable performance.

“One Tanzanian transport company saw rapid growth after introducing Yutong buses, expanding its fleet from just a few vehicles to over 50,” a Yutong statement read on 20 March.

Several local transport operators have emphasised that they prioritise product value and reliability, it noted.

“Even when lower-priced alternatives are available, they ultimately choose Yutong for its superior quality and dependable performance.”

Building on the success of the D14 launch in Tanzania, Yutong is set to expand its reach across Africa.

“This move underscores Yutong's dedication to delivering reliable, high-performance transportation solutions that are meticulously designed to cater to the evolving needs of Africa's passenger transport sector.

The extended body of the new D14 design accommodates up to 77 passengers without sacrificing comfort, boosting both efficiency and revenue potential for operators.

The redesigned compartment is 40% larger than the previous generation, now capable of holding 15.5 cubic metres, addressing the need for increased storage space in passenger transport vehicles.

LED front and rear headlights offer a lifespan of 50,000 hours while consuming just 30W of power, reducing heat output and ensuring safer nighttime driving.

Inside the D14 cabin, comfort and convenience take centre stage with the driver's area featuring an upgraded dashboard, extra storage and a fully air-suspended seat for enhanced long-haul support.

The D14 also prioritises performance and durability, Yutong noted, offering up to 410 hp for exceptional capability across diverse terrains and long distances.

“Built to withstand Africa's challenging road conditions, the D14 features advanced anti-corrosion technology for high temperatures and dust,” the company stated.

“Its structure is built for two million km, or 20 years, with a high-strength, 700 MPa steel frame three times stronger than standard steel, ensuring maximum passenger protection in rollovers."

Yutong’s buses are also supported by an extensive service network across the continent, which includes 80 authorised service stations, 116 on-site customer support locations, and over 10 mobile service teams.

Additionally, it has spare parts distribution centres in Tanzania and South Africa, enabling fast and efficient parts procurement and emergency dispatch for neighbouring countries.

“For example, Yutong's self-operated service station in Tanzania spans 2,600 square metres and is purpose-built to uphold the highest service standards. To date, it has served approximately 200 clients and handled around 1,451 vehicle service cases. With an inventory of over 500 critical spare parts, the facility ensures timely and reliable support for local operators.”

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Investment in Nigeria's ports gathers pace. (Image Source: Adobe Stock)

Nigeria is to get its largest sea port under new plans outlined by Aliko Dangote, president of Dangote group

The new port would be located at the Olokola Free Trade Zone (OKFTZ) in Ogun State, Dangote said in remarks after a business meeting with the state’s governor this week.

“We earlier on abandoned our vision of investing in the Olokola Free Trade Zone, but because of Governor Dapo Abiodun’s policies and investor-friendly environment, I want to say we are back and are going to work with the government and return to Olokola,” commented Dangote.

“Plans are underway to construct the largest port in the country,” Dangote added.

He did not provide any further details on the scale of the project, nor its timing, however he noted that the group had already resumed work on the construction of a cement factory in Itori, with a capacity of 6 million metric tonnes per annum (mtpa).

According to reports, this project is expected to be completed by late 2026.

The group also has a 12 mtpa cement plant in Ibeshe, which Dangote said would combine to make Ogun the highest cement-producing state or region in Africa, with a combined output of 18 mtpa.

“With the contributions of other cement producers in the state, Ogun remains far ahead of other countries across Africa in terms of cement production,” remarked Dangote.

If Dangote moves forward with its plans, it would mark the latest investment in Nigeria’s ports infrastructure following the construction of the new Lekki deep sea port, built alongside the Lekki Freeport Terminal, and the Lagos Free Zone.

At the end of 2024, Lekki marked the launch of Cosco, ONE (Ocean Network Express) and ZIM alliance marine services at Lekki with the arrival of the E A Centaurus vessel, a new milestone for the port.

With an overall length of 277 metres, and a container handling capacity of 7,000 TEU, E A Centaurus is the largest Cosco vessel so far to call Nigeria.

Nigeria’s other major ports include Lagos and Tin Can Island, both in Lagos State, Calabar in Cross River State, the Delta Ports in Warri, Delta State, and the Rivers port complex and Onne, both in Rivers State.

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IFC invests in Nigeria's Lagos Free Zone

Nigerian port orders two Konecranes Gottwald mobile harbour cranes

Dangote to boost economic diversification with maiden clinker shipment

A Cambridge University report highlights how electric motorcycles can reduce air pollution, improve health, and transform urban mobility in Uganda. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

A recent report highlights the potential of electric motorcycles in reducing air pollution and improving public health by lowering harmful emissions

Published by the Cambridge Institute of Sustainability Leadership, the report by Dr Gabriel Okello and Dr Lambed Tatah examines the role of two-wheeled petrol motorcycles—widely known as ‘boda bodas’ in Uganda—as a crucial component of urban transport. These motorcycles provide essential last-mile connectivity and navigate congested city roads efficiently due to their size and manoeuvrability.

However, they are also a major source of air pollution, producing more particulate matter per kilometre than cars.

E-mobility’s impact in Africa

In 2022, Africa had approximately 27 million registered motorcycles—a staggering 440% increase over the past decade. Traffic-related air pollution (TRAP) now contributes to 25% of global urban pollution and is linked to severe health issues, including cardiovascular disease, lung cancer, and asthma.

The report explores how transitioning to electric motorcycles in Kampala could positively impact local air quality and public health, while also identifying key challenges and opportunities for widespread adoption.

It highlights that achieving the benefits of e-mobility requires addressing major barriers, including the high upfront cost of electric motorcycles, limited charging infrastructure, range anxiety, concerns over resale value, and health risks related to battery technology.

The study emphasizes that further action should focus on gathering evidence and engaging stakeholders to overcome these obstacles and develop effective strategies for scaling e-mobility solutions in Uganda and across Africa.