A major upgrade of port facilities is underway at the Port of Matadi in Kongo Central province, where five quays are scheduled for renovation to improve maritime operations and strengthen the competitiveness of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s principal seaport.

Transport Minister Jean-Pierre Bemba outlined the plans on November 26 during the Makutano Forum in Kinshasa.

He said quays 5, 6 and 7 will be modernized under a concession arrangement negotiated with shipping giant MSC. Matadi Corridor Container Terminals (MCTC), which Bemba described as working directly with MSC on the project, previously announced that it had awarded a 100-million-euro contract to Eiffage Génie Civil Marine for the work.

Quay 9, operated under concession by Dubai-based DP World, will also undergo a full upgrade to improve its infrastructure and expand handling capacity. In addition, Abu Dhabi Ports Group plans to begin operating at Quay 0, where it will be responsible for rehabilitation and extension works, according to the minister.

Bemba also detailed an equipment-upgrade program for the National Office of Transport (ONATRA). Using proceeds from the Land Logistics Royalty (RLT), ONATRA is purchasing new equipment to improve operations. Four quays will receive new machinery, including 30-ton elevators, while two additional 80-ton units are expected early next month.

According to Bemba, these investments will help ONATRA regain its position as a major operator at the Port of Matadi and play a key role in revitalizing the country’s logistics sector.

Ronsard Luabeya