Ports

Mining Boom Drives African Infrastructure Push, Creating Logistics Opportunities

Expanding mining operations across sub-Saharan Africa are spurring major infrastructure investments that promise to reshape regional logistics networks. The OECD estimates $155bn in upgrades to ports, rail, and road systems are needed over the next decade for the region to reach its economic potential. Recent projects demonstrate momentum: Ethiopia is constructing a €15bn airport in Addis Ababa while Rwanda is building a €4bn facility. Kenya's new highway network exemplifies the impact. Routes between Nairobi and Addis Ababa have compressed from week-long journeys to 24 hours, while domestic travel times have dropped from four hours to minutes. Mining operations are driving road construction and port improvements essential to support extraction activities. Logistics providers see secondary cities emerging around mining sites as catalysts for commercial development and new demand for supply chain services.