Banana Port: Delivery Expected by Late 2026
The visit of the Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to Banana Port confirms the Kinshasa government’s commitment to establishing a port meeting international standards.
The visit of Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka to the Banana Port site underscores the government’s renewed stance on this strategic project. Following a corruption scandal, the port project is now being relaunched on more appropriate and transparent foundations.
Banana Port Managed by a DP World-DRC Consortium
For context, in 2021, DP World obtained a 30-year concession for the construction and management of the future Banana Port. The Emirati terminal operator partnered with a consortium in which it holds 70%, while the remaining 30% is held by DRC state entities. The concession aims to establish a deep-water port in the Kongo Central Province.
Currently, the DRC relies on Matadi Port for its exports. However, Matadi is limited, unable to accommodate vessels with a draft exceeding 5.5 meters. This makes the development of an international-standard deep-water port critical for the country.
Construction Delays Since 2022
Building a port to international standards has become a strategic priority. However, since the groundbreaking ceremony in January 2022 led by President Felix Tshisekedi, progress has been slow — a point highlighted by the Prime Minister.
Judith Suminwa Tuluka visited the site to assess progress. In her speech, she explained:
« I was in Dubai to meet with the head of DP World. I asked why, since the groundbreaking by the Head of State, the construction of Banana Deep-Water Port had not advanced. He reassured me that they would work to complete the project by late 2026, which is why I came today to review the progress, » said Jorge Hernando Rico, DP World Africa Director, in a LinkedIn post.
Project Timeline on Track
Beyond statements, the visit reflects the DRC government’s determination to have its own port for national trade. According to DP World Africa, “This visit marks a milestone in realizing the DRC’s vision for economic development based on connectivity and international trade.” He added that construction progresses according to schedule, reassuring Kinshasa authorities.
Deep-Water Capabilities: Draft of 16.5 Meters
Currently, some of the DRC’s trade flows pass through Matadi Port, while others rely on neighboring ports such as Pointe-Noire or Dar es Salaam. The future Banana Port will provide a 600-meter quay and will initially serve as a container terminal.
According to DP World Africa, the terminal will have a capacity of approximately 450,000 TEU, with a draft of 16.5 meters, allowing it to accommodate containerships exceeding 10,000 TEU.
Integrated Land Infrastructure
The DRC government is also planning comprehensive land infrastructure to enhance connectivity and traffic flow. Additionally, a single-window system will be implemented to centralize administrative and customs procedures, further facilitating trade operations.
Source: portsetcorridors
