Praia, Cape Verde – The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has moved closer to realizing the Praia-Dakar maritime transport project as it wrapped up a crucial workshop in Cape Verde. The gathering brought together key stakeholders to assess the financial, economic, and logistical feasibility of the proposed sea route.
This initiative is a cornerstone of the broader Coast-Dakar-Abidjan-Lagos Transport Corridor project, aimed at boosting regional connectivity and economic integration. Experts, government officials, and industry players explored various options for the maritime service, including container-only, passenger and cargo (RoPax), or a hybrid model combining both.
A technical visit to Praia Port provided valuable insights into the infrastructure and operational requirements for the proposed service. Discussions centered on developing a comprehensive plan, including financial strategies, economic impact assessments, and logistical implementation.
Eduardo Lima, President of Cape Verde’s National Port Administration Company, emphasized the project’s potential to unlock economic opportunities for the country and its citizens. “The Praia-Dakar-Abidjan corridor is a game-changer for our region,” he said, highlighting the increased access to a market of over 400 million people.
Dr. Chris Appiah, ECOWAS Acting Director for Infrastructure, underscored the project’s role in enhancing regional trade and tourism. “By improving transport links, we are laying the foundation for increased mobility, economic growth, and stronger ties among West African nations,” he stated.
The Praia-Dakar maritime line is expected to be operational by the end of 2026.
