Marsa Maroc, Morocco’s leading port management company, is taking bold steps to strengthen its presence in Africa with the upcoming launch of subsidiaries in Djibouti and Benin. This strategic move reflects the group’s ambition to establish itself as a key player in Africa’s port development and trade facilitation, as reported by Aujourd’hui le Maroc.
Djibouti: A strategic petroleum hub
In Djibouti, Marsa Maroc has entered the oil sector by becoming a shareholder in Damerjog Oil Jetty FZE. This company is tasked with building, equipping, and operating a new oil terminal at Damerjog, dedicated to the storage and transshipment of hydrocarbons.
Located at the entrance to the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, Djibouti’s strategic position makes it an essential hub for oil supply to Ethiopia and neighboring countries. By joining forces with prominent players in the petroleum sector, Marsa Maroc is positioning itself as a significant contributor to this critical energy corridor.
Benin: Modernizing key terminals in Cotonou
In Benin, Marsa Maroc has been entrusted with the management of Terminals 1 and 5 at the Port of Cotonou.
The group aims to modernize these terminals, optimize their operations, and increase port traffic. Leveraging its proven expertise, Marsa Maroc plans to enhance the competitiveness of the Port of Cotonou, supporting Benin’s economic growth and its role as a gateway for regional trade.
A pan-African growth strategy
These expansions are part of Marsa Maroc’s ambitious pan-African development strategy. By diversifying its activities and extending its port network across the continent, the group aims to establish strong partnerships with local authorities and private stakeholders. This approach is underpinned by a commitment to the economic and social progress of host countries.
Economic and social impact
The projects in Djibouti and Benin are expected to yield significant economic and social benefits. They will create jobs, improve port infrastructure, and stimulate commercial trade in both countries. Marsa Maroc is also committed to skill development, promoting knowledge transfer, and supporting sustainable development initiatives in the regions where it operates.
A testament to Moroccan expertise
Marsa Maroc’s expansion into Africa showcases the dynamism and expertise of the Moroccan group in port management. The establishment of subsidiaries in Djibouti and Benin will not only bolster Morocco’s presence on the continent but also contribute to the economic development of these strategic regions.