Operations at the Port of Matadi are slowly improving, according to a June 2025 report by Top Congo FM radio. This revival follows rehabilitation efforts launched in 2024 by the National Transport Office (Onatra), aimed at modernizing the long-neglected state-owned enterprise, which had been hindered by outdated infrastructure for years.

The upgrades target quays 0, 1, and 2, and include building a new container yard. Onatra's Director General, Martin Lukusa, stated the project is mostly funded by internal resources. However, he did not provide details on the cost or the contractor performing the work.

Quays 1 and 2 are now operational. In January, Onatra acquired three new mobile cranes, allowing two vessels to be handled simultaneously. The current handling capacity is estimated at 1,500 TEUs, according to Olivier Tesi, Deputy Director of the container terminal. He noted a recent instance where a Maersk vessel was processed in 15 hours, though the specific volume handled was not disclosed.

Two more gantry cranes are expected by the end of July, which should further increase the terminal's capacity. Onatra ultimately aims to handle between 5,000 and 6,000 TEUs.

Due to its deteriorating facilities, Onatra previously transferred some assets to private partners through "win-win" agreements. One such partnership with the Philippine-based International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) resulted in the creation of the Matadi Gateway Terminal (MGT), where Onatra holds a 10% stake. In November 2024, Matadi Corridor Container Terminals (MCTC) was granted a concession to modernize, equip, and operate another section of the terminal.

Written in French by Timothée Manoke (Intern),

Translated and adapted into English by Mouka Mezonlin