Mogadishu port ranked most efficient in East Africa by World Bank index
For Somalia, the recognition is not merely symbolic—it signals that the country can deliver competitive services despite a challenging environment, giving international shipping companies confidence in Mogadishu as a viable East African gateway.
Somalia's Mogadishu port has been ranked the most efficient maritime hub in East Africa in the 2024 Container Port Performance Index (CPPI), a global study released on September 24 by the World Bank in partnership with S&P Global Market Intelligence.
The annual index evaluates and compares the performance of ports worldwide, and its findings are closely monitored by governments, investors, and shipping companies seeking insights into global trade dynamics.
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This year’s CPPI assessed 407 container ports, including 47 across Africa. It measures efficiency primarily through vessel turnaround time—the period from when a ship arrives at anchorage until it departs after completing cargo operations.
Ports with shorter turnaround times are considered more efficient, as they enable faster trade flows, reduce costs for shipping lines, and enhance competitiveness in regional and international markets.
According to the results, Mogadishu port ranked 163rd globally, outpacing major East African facilities. Berbera Port in Somaliland ranked 243rd, Dar es Salaam in Tanzania 360th, Djibouti 364th, and Mombasa in Kenya 375th.
Ahead of regional rivals
This performance not only placed Mogadishu ahead of its regional rivals but also secured its position among Africa’s top five ports, alongside Port Said in Egypt, Tanger-Med in Morocco, Dakar in Senegal, and Toamasina in Madagascar.
Ambassador Mohamed Ali Nur, known as Americo, the Director-General of the Mogadishu Port Authority, hailed the recognition as a milestone for Somalia’s economy and its role in international trade.
“This achievement demonstrates that a port can compete effectively at regional and global levels, even without the largest infrastructure investments. We are proud to provide shipping lines with a reliable gateway and to contribute to Somalia’s growing influence in regional and global commerce,” he said.
Somali officials view the recognition as proof that recent reforms aimed at improving efficiency at the Mogadishu port are bearing fruit.
These reforms include modernising management systems, introducing digital processes to expedite cargo handling, and implementing measures to enhance service reliability. Such improvements have given shipping companies greater certainty and predictability, encouraging more trade flows through Somalia.
Regional trade
The ranking also comes as Somalia seeks to expand its role in regional trade. Traditionally dependent on livestock exports, remittances, and imports of basic goods, the government is now prioritising port services to increase revenue and integrate more deeply into global supply chains.
The CPPI is widely regarded as a key benchmark in the shipping industry. Beyond measuring efficiency, it provides governments and private operators with a tool to identify weaknesses and track progress.
For Somalia, the recognition is not merely symbolic—it signals that the country can deliver competitive services despite a challenging environment, giving international shipping companies confidence in Mogadishu as a viable East African gateway.
Analysts note that improved efficiency at the Mogadishu port could lower transport costs for Somali traders and attract more foreign investment. As the country’s main entry point for imports, the port is central to supplying domestic markets.
Improving port performance
With regional trade on the rise, sustaining and further improving port performance will be critical to Somalia’s ability to capture the benefits of increased commerce.
The government has pledged to build on this momentum, with plans to expand infrastructure, boost capacity, and streamline operations.
While challenges remain—such as the need for enhanced security and investment in roads and storage facilities—the World Bank and S&P Global recognition provides fresh impetus for Somalia’s trade ambitions.
The 2024 CPPI marks a turning point in East Africa’s maritime landscape, with Mogadishu Port emerging as the region’s most efficient facility. For Somalia, the recognition underscores the value of reform and sustained investment in its key trade gateways.
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