Amidst take over controvercy fully unresolved,DP World has launched the construction work on the development of the multipurpose Berbera port in the Republic of Somaliland.

The first phase of work at DP World Berbera has started with a ground-breaking ceremony in Somalia.

The first phase will consist of building a 400-meter quay and 250,000-square meter yard extension as well as the development of a free zone to create a new regional trading hub.

DP World Berbera, the joint venture company between the company and the Somaliland government, will also serve land locked countries in the Horn of Africa such as Ethiopia which has a 19% stake in the project as a shareholder.

“This event is a landmark in the history of Somaliland and for DP World. We are delighted that construction work has begun and over the next few years we will see a transformation in the capacity of this major infrastructure asset that will benefit people both here and across the Horn of Africa, providing an alternative gateway to international markets,” DP World Group Chairman & CEO Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, said.

“This is all part of our vision to act as an enabler of trade and to encourage growth by helping African countries develop their economies with access to global markets. Investment in this natural deep-water port and free zone will act as a catalyst for the growth of the country (…) I’d like to thank the Government and the people of Somaliland for inviting us to be a long-term partner in the future of their nation,” bin Sulayem added.

Shafa Al Nahda Contracting have been awarded the construction contract for the port expansion. Shafa Al Nahda have been involved in the Port of Dakar expansion in Senegal as well the Port of Maputo expansion project in Mozambique, according to DP World.