Ports

Mining Boom Opens Infrastructure Door for African Logistics Operators

Extractive industry expansion across sub-Saharan Africa is catalyzing infrastructure improvements that logistics providers have long demanded, though substantial investment gaps persist. The OECD estimates $155bn in port, rail, and road upgrades are needed over the next decade for the region to capitalize on its economic potential. DHL Express Sub-Saharan Africa CEO Hennie Heymans highlighted tangible progress: Kenya's new highway is accelerating economic growth, while Ethiopia develops a €15bn airport in Addis Ababa and Rwanda constructs a €4bn facility. Journey times have compressed dramatically. Nairobi to Addis Ababa routes that once required over a week now take 24 hours. An eight-lane highway has slashed domestic travel from four hours to minutes. Mining operations are driving road development and port enhancements. Regional forwarders view extractive projects as catalysts for secondary city growth and emerging commercial hubs, generating fresh logistics demand.