Jan De Nul Begins Work on New Deep-water Port in Senegal

Belgium-based offshore installation contractor Jan De Nul has embarked on a monumental project in Senegal, where they are working on the construction of a new deep-water port. This port will have the capacity to accommodate two of the world’s largest container ships simultaneously, marking a significant development in Senegal’s maritime infrastructure.

Jan De Nul’s scope of work includes dredging a five-kilometer access channel and creating an 89-hectare platform for maritime services and container storage. The project is expected to take approximately two and a half years to complete, showcasing the complexity and scale of the undertaking.

Addressing Capacity Challenges at the Port of Dakar

The Port of Dakar is currently operating at near-maximum capacity, with the surrounding area facing saturation. To alleviate this pressure and foster continued growth, DP World, a global leader in logistics and trade and the operator of Dakar’s container terminal, is spearheading the development of the new port in Ndayane, located 50 kilometers south of the capital.

By expanding Senegal’s container handling capacity, the new port in Ndayane will play a pivotal role in enhancing the country’s trade and economic prospects.

Overcoming Challenges in Construction

Constructing a deep-water port in Senegal poses unique challenges, particularly due to the hard rock seabed in the channel and the rough conditions of the Atlantic Ocean. Jan De Nul has deployed its largest and most powerful cutter suction dredger, the Willem Van Rubroeck, to navigate these hurdles and ensure the successful completion of the project.

Dominique Bombaert, Area Manager for Senegal at Jan De Nul, emphasized the importance of using specialized equipment to tackle the demanding conditions of the construction site.

Driving Economic Growth and Job Creation

Upon its completion, the port of Ndayane will significantly enhance Senegal’s maritime capabilities, enabling it to accommodate two of the world’s largest container ships simultaneously. This milestone positions Ndayane as one of the largest ports in West Africa, with far-reaching implications for economic growth and job creation in Senegal.

The development of the new deep-water port in Senegal represents a strategic investment in the country’s infrastructure, promising to unlock new opportunities and propel Senegal’s position as a key player in the maritime industry.