Top 10 most important port cities in Africa

Ports serve as key entry and exit links for products traded between Africa and the rest of the globe. They handle a significant portion of Africa’s commerce, including commodities like oil, minerals, agricultural products, and manufactured items. The efficiency and capacity of ports have a direct impact on trade competitiveness.

Its importance cannot be overstated given that international trade in Africa is primarily dependent on its ports, This is the reason why some of the continent’s most famous port cities are its most famous cities period. Cities such as Lagos, Dar es Salaam, and Durban, despite not being the capital cities have been established as major economic hubs.

Ports are important drivers of economic growth and employment creation in Africa. Port-related businesses, such as shipping, logistics, warehousing, and distribution, create significant employment opportunities. Port activities provide direct jobs, while indirect jobs occur in linked industries such as transportation, manufacturing, and services.

Ports also encourage investment in infrastructure development, such as the construction of roads, trains, and industrial zones. These initiatives not only enhance connection and accessibility but also stimulate economic activity in the surrounding areas.

“More than 80 percent of global merchandise trade (by volume) is transported via sea routes. A considerable and increasing proportion of this volume, accounting for about 35 percent of total volumes and over 60 percent of commercial value, is carried in containers,” the report reads.

The report comes from the World Bank’s Transport Global Practice collaboration with S&P Global Market Intelligence’s Global Intelligence & Analytics division to create the fourth edition of the Container Port Performance Index (CPPI).

With that said, here are the top ports in Africa, and by extension the cities where they are situated.