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DP World inaugurates Kigali logistics platform

Global trade enabler DP World inaugurated its Kigali Logistics Platform in the presence of Rwanda President, Paul Kagame, and DP World chairman and CEO, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem.
The facility, which has been operational since September 2018 in test mode, has an annual capacity of 50,000 TEU. When operating at full capacity, it has the potential to save Rwandan businesses up to $50 million a year in logistics costs. Since the commencement of its operations in the Rwandan capital last year, the Kigali Logistics Platform has reduced truck-turnaround time which used to be an average of 10-14 days to just three days.
The platform serves as a gateway to the heart of Africa, connecting Rwanda to neighbouring countries including Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya.
The railway from Mombasa port in Kenya will pass through Uganda to Rwanda and also the railway from Dar Es Salaam to Kigali is under construction and will have its final cargo rail siding located at Kigali Logistics Platform. Linking railways to the Kigali Logistics Platform has the potential to dramatically reduce logistics costs for exports and imports via international gateways on the coast.
Bin Sulayem said: "We believe in the economic potential of Rwanda and the African Great Lakes region. DP World is proud to support Rwanda in its ambitions to establish itself as a key services and trade hub for the region, and to accelerate further economic growth by sharing our knowledge and expertise in innovation and technology."
He added: "As we inaugurate Kigali Logistics Platform, we are delighted by the impact it has already had on businesses and the community. We look forward to building on our strategic partnership with the Rwandan government to expand the logistics and trade sector, by empowering the Rwandan people to increase the attractiveness of the country as a key trade hub in Africa."
Kigali Logistics Platform has already contributed to socio-economic progress through the creation of 667 direct and indirect jobs, with 98 per cent local employment. The Kigali terminal also contributes to the elevation of living standards in nearby villages through business development projects and internship opportunities for young adults from economically challenged families.
The $35 million project spans over 130,000m², including a 12,000m² container yard and a 19,600m² warehousing facility. DP World and the government of Rwanda are exploring the expansion of Kigali Logistics Platform to Phase 1.2 and Phase 2 to increase efficiency and provide more logistics solutions.
"The introduction of new logistics routes paired with smart warehousing systems will improve access of Rwandan businesses to global markets, boost economic development and drive new investments into the Rwandan economy," Bin Sulayem said.
- business@khaleejtimes.com