Douala: AD Ports Group has joined Africa Ports Development’s (APD) 30-year concession to design, build, and operate a new dry bulk terminal at the Port of Douala in the Republic of Cameroon.
According to Emirates News Agency, the agreement establishes an investment structure where AD Ports Group, along with two other UAE investors, owns 60% of the operating company, while Africa Ports Development LTD holds 40% ownership. This arrangement implies an effective economic interest of 51% for AD Ports Group. AD Ports Group’s share of investment is expected to be around AED320 million (EUR73.4 million) for the development of phase 1 of the dry bulk terminal, which includes 2 berths and approximately 450 metres of quay wall, with an annual handling capacity of around 4 million tonnes of dry bulk cargo, such as clinker, gypsum, fertiliser, and grain.
Construction is anticipated to occur between 2026 and 2028, in collaboration with the Port Authority of Douala, to meet the strong demand at Cameroon’s principal maritime gateway. Mohamed Eidha Al Menhali, Regional CEO of AD Ports Group, emphasized the strategic importance of this expansion in Africa and the commitment to developing maritime infrastructure in high-growth markets. The development aims to enhance trade resilience, support industrial development, and strengthen Cameroon’s role as a gateway to Central Africa.
Al Menhali further stated that the partnership with Africa Ports Development combines local market expertise with AD Ports Group’s global capabilities in port development and operations. This collaboration supports the Port Authority of Douala’s plans to modernize and enhance Douala Port, enabling regional trade and long-term economic growth.
Marc Tabchy, Managing Partner of Africa Ports Development, expressed honor in partnering with AD Ports Group, recognizing the potential of the project, Cameroon, and the African continent. The collaboration aims to create a strategic synergy by combining Africa Ports Development’s regional depth with AD Ports Group’s operational excellence.
The new terminal, located at the Port of Douala, the largest maritime port in Cameroon, will strengthen regional supply chains and enhance the efficiency of key cargo flows. It will also benefit from strong hinterland connectivity, linking Douala with major industrial centers and regional trade corridors across Central Africa.
AD Ports Group continues to expand across Africa, building on investments and operations in Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, Kenya, Tanzania, Angola, and the Republic of the Congo, reinforcing its position as a preferred partner for trade and logistics infrastructure across the continent.
