DP World to Deliver DRC’s Banana Port in 20 Months

The Banana deep-water port in Kongo Central, southwestern Democratic Republic of Congo, is set to be completed within 18 to 20 months, according to port operator DP World.

The port will include a 600-meter quay, an 18-meter draft and an annual handling capacity of approximately 450,000 twenty-foot equivalent units). Designed to accommodate large vessels, the facility will feature modern port infrastructure and advanced technologies.

Initial dredging has already been completed, and construction remains on schedule. Delivery may even occur ahead of the projected timeline, though the 20-month window is not expected to be exceeded.

As the DRC’s first deep-water port, Banana is expected to significantly reduce reliance on ports in neighboring countries by providing a direct gateway to international shipping routes. The project aligns with President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi’s strategic objective to position the DRC as a key player in regional and global trade.