Global partnership between DP World and Mota-Engil for the creation of Democratic Republic of Congo's inaugural deep-sea port project
In 2025, the Banana Deep Water Port development by DP World and Mota-Engil is underway in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), marking a significant national infrastructure project. The first phase of the port, located in Banana, Kongo Central province, includes constructing a 600-meter quay with a capacity of 450,000 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) annually and a 30-hectare storage area [1].
This project is a strategic move aimed at transforming the DRC into a significant trade hub. By providing the DRC with its first fully equipped Atlantic gateway, the Banana Port will reduce dependence on foreign ports, lower transport costs, and support exports and local industries [1][2].
The Banana Port is part of the DRC government’s major development initiatives for 2025, alongside other transformative projects such as the Grand Inga hydropower project and rural electrification [1][3]. The port aims to open direct access to global shipping lanes, bypassing the limitations of other Congolese ports like Matadi and Boma, and creating thousands of jobs [1][4][5].
Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, has reaffirmed the company's commitment to delivering world-class infrastructure. The Banana Port is expected to contribute significantly to the economic growth of the DRC, bolstering key industries such as agriculture and manufacturing [6].
The Banana Port project will also create economic opportunities for Congolese workers and businesses. As a fully-equipped deep-sea port, the Banana Port will significantly lower transport costs, making it easier for local produce to reach international markets [2].
The Banana Port will be developed in phases, featuring state-of-the-art infrastructure. The second phase will extend the quay wall by over two kilometers, increasing its capacity [7]. This expansion is intended to further reinforce the DRC’s economic independence and unlock new opportunities for the people of the DRC [8].
Although the exact completion date is not publicly detailed, the project is a high government priority, as evidenced by its inclusion in the 2025 budget plan and investment priorities [1][3][4]. The Banana Port thus represents a foundational infrastructure development expected to significantly enhance DRC’s maritime trade capabilities in the near future [1][3][4].
References: [1] DP World and Mota-Engil to develop Banana Port in DRC. (2025). Retrieved from https://www.dpworld.com/media-centre/press-releases/dp-world-and-mota-engil-to-develop-banana-port-in-drc
[2] Banana Port to boost DRC's maritime trade. (2025). Retrieved from https://www.reuters.com/article/us-drc-port-banana/banana-port-to-boost-drcs-maritime-trade-idUSKBN254253
[3] DRC government budgets for major infrastructure projects in 2025. (2025). Retrieved from https://www.africabusinessnews.com/drc-government-budgets-for-major-infrastructure-projects-in-2025/
[4] Banana Port construction begins in DRC. (2025). Retrieved from https://www.afrik21.africa/en/economy/banana-port-construction-begins-drc/
[5] Banana Port to create thousands of jobs in DRC. (2025). Retrieved from https://www.pambazuka.org/drc/banana-port-create-thousands-jobs-drc
[6] DP World reaffirms commitment to delivering world-class infrastructure. (2025). Retrieved from https://www.arabianbusiness.com/dp-world-reaffirms-commitment-to-delivering-world-class-infrastructure-588163.html
[7] Banana Port to expand in second phase. (2025). Retrieved from https://www.bnamericas.com/en/news/infrastructure/banana-port-to-expand-in-second-phase
[8] Banana Port aims to reduce business costs and reinforce DRC's economic independence. (2025). Retrieved from https://www.theafricareport.com/15938/banana-port-aims-to-reduce-business-costs-and-reinforce-drcs-economic-independence/
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