Djibouti sets the pace in port management

By Patrick Beja

Port chiefs converge in Djibouti from December 15 to 18 to map out ways of revamping performance and improving cooperation.

It presents an opportunity for the Port of Djibouti to showcase its major strides since it was concessioned to Dubai Port World (DP World) in 2000.

The port bosses meet for the Pan- African Ports Co-operation conference at Djibouti Palace Kempinski hotel.

When Djibouti Port/DP World Commercial Director Djama Ibrahim Darar showcased the premier port during a technical committee meeting in Mombasa last week, it was testimony that the 20-year concession agreement was bearing fruit.

The meeting had been called by Mombasa Port Management Association of Eastern and Southern Africa.

According to Darar, the latest project is the $400 million (Sh28 billion) Doraleh Container Terminal (DCT), whose first phase is nearly complete. "DP World currently manages the port of Djibouti, located 11 km away, as well as Doraleh oil terminal," says Darar.

Increase capacity

Construction of the DCT began on November 11, 2006, and it would enable the terminal operator handle additional 1.5 million (twenty foot equivalent units) annually. Phase two of the terminal will see container capacity raised to three million teus. The project includes six super post panamax quay cranes and 16 Rubber Tyred Gantry (RTG) cranes as well as a free zone.

The Head of Public Relations and Communication at Djibouti Port/DP World, Ms Anissa Ali Ahmed, who also shared the success story with delegates, accompanied him. The $130 million (Sh9 billion) Doraleh oil terminal was commissioned in February 2006. In total, $530 million (Sh36 billion) has been put into port infrastructure development since the international port operators set foot in Djibouti. And this puts Djibouti Port ahead of the park in terms of investment in infrastructure.

Kenya is still seeking strategic partners to expand the Mombasa port infrastructure, and develop a new port in Lamu.