Africa relies heavily on its seaports and trade terminals to facilitate trade, serving as key gateways for imports and exports. These plays crucial roles in the continent’s economic development, despite accounting for only 2.7% of global trade by value, the continent contributes 7% of global maritime exports and 5% of maritime imports by volume.
Even though one-third of African nations are landlocked, seaports remain essential for economic activity, connecting businesses to international markets.
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However, several African nations have expanded their port infrastructure to accommodate increasing trade volumes, enhance connectivity, and boost regional economies.
According to Global fire power here are the top 10 African countries with the highest number of seaports and trade terminals.
1. Egypt – 31 Seaports/Trade Terminals
Egypt leads the continent with 31 seaports and trade terminals, primarily due to its strategic location along the Mediterranean and Red Seas. The Suez Canal, a crucial global trade artery, enhances Egypt’s maritime prominence by facilitating international shipping between Europe and Asia. Key ports such as Alexandria, Port Said, and Damietta serve as major commercial hubs.
2. Nigeria – 28 Seaports/Trade Terminals
Nigeria, has 28 seaports and trade terminals that support its booming oil, gas, and agricultural exports. Lagos, Apapa, and Onne ports are vital to West Africa’s trade, handling significant cargo volumes destined for regional and international markets. The government has been investing in port modernization to ease congestion and improve efficiency.
3. Angola – 21 Seaports/Trade Terminal
Angola’s port infrastructure is central to its oil-driven economy. With 21 seaports and trade terminals, including Luanda and Lobito, the country facilitates both crude oil exports and general cargo trade. Angola’s government is focused on port expansion projects to enhance maritime.
4. Algeria – 17 Seaports/Trade Terminals
Algeria’s strategic Mediterranean coastline hosts 17 seaports and trade terminals, crucial for its oil, gas, and agricultural trade. The Port of Algiers is the country’s main shipping hub, handling a substantial portion of Algeria’s commercial imports and exports.
5. Tunisia – 16 Seaports/Trade Terminals
Tunisia’s 16 seaports and trade terminals support its economy, which relies heavily on exports of agricultural products, textiles, and machinery. The Port of Rades is the country’s largest and busiest, facilitating trade with Europe and other regions.
6. Libya – 14 Seaports/Trade Terminals
Libya, despite political instability, maintains 14 seaports and trade terminals along its Mediterranean coastline. Ports such as Tripoli and Benghazi play a crucial role in the country’s oil exports and the importation of essential goods.
7. Madagascar – 13 Seaports/Trade Terminals
As an island nation, Madagascar relies heavily on its 13 seaports and trade terminals for economic sustenance. The Port of Toamasina is the largest and serves as the primary gateway for international trade, handling key exports like vanilla, coffee, and seafood.
8. Morocco – 12 Seaports/Trade Terminals
Morocco has positioned itself as a maritime leader in North Africa with 12 seaports and trade terminals. The Port of Tangier Med is a major transshipment hub, connecting Africa with Europe, Asia, and the Americas, while Casablanca and Agadir ports support local industries.
9. Mozambique – 11 Seaports/Trade Terminals
Mozambique’s extensive coastline accommodates 11 seaports and trade terminals that are vital for its exports of coal, natural gas, and agricultural products. The Port of Maputo is the largest, serving as a critical link for trade in southern Africa.
10. Gabon – 9 Seaports/Trade Terminals
Gabon, rich in oil and timber, operates 9 seaports and trade terminals that bolster its export-driven economy. The Port of Owendo is the main commercial hub, facilitating international shipments and regional trade.
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