Development of Port of Ziguinchor (Development Phase)

The Casamance region located in the south of Senegal is known for its extensive natural resources and its unique climate offering a large potential for economic development. However, a former separatist conflict and the isolated location of the region (the region is separated from the rest of Senegal by The Gambia) hindered economic development for a long time. The regions poverty level is among the highest in the country. The productivity of the region is underexploited due to limited transport connections to the rest of the country and limited access to markets. Also power cuts are frequent as fuel supply is limited because fuel is transported by truck. Compared to road and air transport maritime transport from the port of Ziguinchor located at the Casamance river is the least expensive and most environmentally friendly option for transport to the trade centre Dakar. Unfortunately maritime transport is hindered by the limited draft of the river caused by sand banks. As a result the number of vessel calls has dropped. Furthermore, the port management structure is inefficient and outdated and international port standards especially safety requirements are not met. With regard to these shortcomings the project is defined as the upgrade and operation of the port of Ziguinchor. The design of the port allows vessels up to 5,000 DWT (standard size of short sea vessels). Unfortunately the river currently does not allow ships of that size to pass through so dredging is an elementary requirement. The project comprises the following elements:- Works to improve access to the port (dredging of the river and navigational aids)- Upgrading of the port infrastructure in order to include all relevant facilities for a secondary port according to international standards- Relocation of fishery activities to the fishery port- Maintenance of the access channel (river) and the infrastructure- Technical assistance to the management and the port staff.