A significant leap towards bolstering Senegal's economic infrastructure is underway as Belgium-based offshore installation contractor, Jan De Nul, has initiated dredging operations for the new deep-water port in Ndayane, located 50 kilometers south of Dakar. This ambitious project, spearheaded by global logistics giant DP World, aims to alleviate the mounting pressure on the saturated Port of Dakar and establish a pivotal maritime hub capable of accommodating the world's largest container vessels.

The Port of Dakar, nearing its maximum operational capacity, has long been a critical gateway for Senegal's trade. However, its limitations and the surrounding area's complete saturation have necessitated the development of a new, expansive facility. DP World, the current operator of Dakar’s container terminal, is leading the charge in Ndayane, envisioning a future where Senegal's container handling capacity is significantly enhanced.

Jan De Nul's role in this monumental undertaking is crucial. The company is tasked with dredging a five-kilometer access channel, a complex operation involving the excavation of approximately ten million cubic meters of sediment. This dredged material will be repurposed to create an 89-hectare platform, serving as a vital space for maritime services and container storage.

"This is no easy task," emphasized Dominique Bombaert, Area Manager for Senegal at Jan De Nul. "The seabed in the channel consists mainly of hard rock, and the conditions in the Atlantic Ocean can be rough. You need a powerful dredger that is also large enough to continue working in challenging wave conditions. That is why we deploy our largest and most powerful cutter suction dredger, the Willem Van Rubroeck, to get the job done."

The sheer scale of the project underscores its strategic importance. Upon completion, anticipated within two and a half years, the Ndayane port will be capable of simultaneously accommodating two of the world’s largest container ships, positioning it as a leading maritime facility in West Africa. This development is expected to be a significant driver of economic growth in Senegal, creating numerous job opportunities and fostering trade expansion.

Beyond its economic impact, the project is being executed with a strong emphasis on environmental stewardship. An extensive environmental impact study was conducted to minimize any potential negative effects, particularly in sensitive areas such as seagrass fields. Furthermore, Jan De Nul is committed to monitoring water quality throughout the project's duration and taking into account the presence of marine mammals and turtles.

The construction of the Ndayane port represents a pivotal moment for Senegal, marking a substantial investment in its future. By addressing the limitations of the existing Port of Dakar and creating a state-of-the-art maritime facility, Senegal is poised to strengthen its position as a key player in regional and global trade.