Development of Pointe Noire Environmental and Social Impact Study

(Posted on 05/08/24)

AD Ports Group, a leading facilitator of global trade, logistics and industry, has announced the completion of an environmental and social impact study, as part of its 30-year concession agreement with the Government of the Republic of the Congo – Brazzaville, for managing and operating the multipurpose New East Mole Terminal in Pointe-Noire in the Republic of the Congo – Brazzaville.

The study was conducted using diverse scientific methodologies in line with the national Congolese regulations and international best practices such as International Finance Corporation (IFC) environmental and social performance standards. It outlines the optimum recommendations for AD Ports Group to enhance the social, communal and environmental performance of the project during the construction and operational phases.

As part of the study, a public consultation was held in May 2024 attended by all relevant stakeholders in Pointe Noire including the Port authority - Port Autonome de Pointe-Noire, Préfecture - Prefecture De Pointe-Noire, Marine Marchand, Mayor's office, National & International NGOs, Port operators, and all major minister's representatives related to the project, with aim of informing and engaging the relevant parties in the development of the project.

Apart from the provision of state-of-the art hardware such as equipment’s and cranes Group’s commitment to this project, AD Ports Group will also provide the new facility with digital services and technological solutions to enhance its efficiency and minimise impact of its operations on the environment.

Throughout the concession agreement, AD Ports Group is committed to excellence in policies related to urban planning, safety, security, and sustainability. The environmental and social issues are of paramount importance and demonstrating community support is a priority.

Mohamed Eidha Tannaf AlMenhali, Regional CEO – AD Ports Group, said: “At AD Ports Group, we recognise our role in driving economic growth and prosperity, both locally and globally in the communities where we operate. Conducting these environmental studies before we embark on any project reflects our approach focused on integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations into our business practices to drive sustainable growth and create long-term value for all stakeholders.”

Under the terms of the agreement signed in June 2023, AD Ports Group will have the exclusive right to invest in the development, operation, management and maintenance of the “New East Mole Port” that will handle containers, general cargo, break-bulk and other types of cargo. The Agreement runs for thirty years from the date of signing and AD Ports Group shall have the right to further extend it for a further period of twenty (20) years on the same terms and conditions.

AD Ports Group will invest more than US$ 500 million over the life of the concession, with around US$ 220 million allocated for phase 1, which is expected to be completed over the next 30 months.

Pointe Noire is the main commercial centre of the Republic of the Congo – Brazzaville, and its port plays a key role in the economy and development of the nation and wider region. Executives are confident that the collaboration will help stimulate trade and enhance connectivity for the Republic of the Congo – Brazzaville, which is pursuing a new National Development Plan (NDP) focusing on economic diversification and high, resilient, and inclusive growth.