Africa seaports are vital hubs for trade, driving economic growth across countries on the continent.
Despite handling just 2.7% of global trade by value, African countries contribute 7% of maritime exports and 5% of imports by volume.
Seaports in Africa are vital for trade, driving economic growth despite handling just 2.7% of global trade by value. They account for 7% of maritime exports and 5% of imports by volume.
Though a third of countries in Africa are landlocked, seaports remain crucial, linking businesses to global markets.
To boost trade, many countries are investing in import expansion, enhancing connectivity, and strengthening regional economies.
Countries with the most seaports in Africa
1. Egypt – 31 Seaports/Trade Terminals
Egypt tops the list with 31 seaports and trade terminals, thanks to its strategic position along the Mediterranean and Red Seas. The Suez Canal, a key global trade route, enhances Egypt’s maritime significance by linking Europe and Asia. Major ports include Alexandria, Port Said, and Damietta, serving as crucial commercial hubs.
2. Nigeria – 28 Seaports/Trade Terminals
Nigeria operates 28 seaports and trade terminals, supporting its vast oil, gas, and agricultural exports. Lagos, Apapa, and Onne ports are essential for West Africa’s trade, handling significant cargo volumes. The government continues to invest in port modernization to ease congestion and improve efficiency.
3. Angola – 21 Seaports/Trade Terminals
Angola’s 21 seaports and trade terminals, including Luanda and Lobito, play a central role in its oil-driven economy. The government is implementing expansion projects to enhance maritime trade and improve logistical capacity.
4. Algeria – 17 Seaports/Trade Terminals
Algeria, with 17 seaports along its Mediterranean coastline, relies on maritime trade for its oil, gas, and agricultural exports. The Port of Algiers remains its primary commercial shipping hub, handling a substantial share of the country’s imports and exports.
5. Tunisia – 16 Seaports/Trade Terminals
Tunisia’s economy heavily depends on exports of agricultural products, textiles, and machinery, supported by 16 seaports and trade terminals. The Port of Rades is the country’s largest and busiest, facilitating trade with Europe and other regions.
6. Libya – 14 Seaports/Trade Terminals
Despite ongoing political instability, Libya maintains 14 seaports and trade terminals along its Mediterranean coastline. Ports such as Tripoli and Benghazi are vital for 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, serving as the primary gateway for international trade and 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 supports 11 seaports and trade terminals, vital for the export of coal, natural gas, and agricultural products. The Port of Maputo is the largest, playing a crucial role in trade across southern Africa.
10. Gabon – 9 Seaports/Trade Terminals
Gabon’s economy, driven by oil and timber exports, benefits from 9 seaports and trade terminals. The Port of Owendo is the nation’s main commercial hub, facilitating international shipments and regional trade.
