Seaports are essential to Africa’s trade network, facilitating economic growth and connecting businesses to global markets.
Despite contributing only 2.7% of global trade by value, African countries account for 7% of maritime exports and 5% of imports by volume.
Although a third of African nations are landlocked, seaports play a crucial role in trade, prompting many governments to invest in port expansion and infrastructure upgrades to enhance efficiency and regional connectivity.
Countries with the Most Seaports in Africa
1. Egypt – 31 Seaports/Trade Terminals
Egypt leads with 31 seaports and trade terminals, benefiting from its strategic location along the Mediterranean and Red Seas. The Suez Canal, a critical global trade route linking Europe and Asia, further strengthens its maritime significance. Key ports include Alexandria, Port Said, and Damietta.
2. Nigeria – 28 Seaports/Trade Terminals
With 28 seaports and trade terminals, Nigeria’s ports support its booming oil, gas, and agricultural exports. Major ports like Lagos, Apapa, and Onne are central to West Africa’s trade, handling large cargo volumes. The government continues investing in port modernization to improve efficiency and reduce congestion.
3. Angola – 21 Seaports/Trade Terminals
Angola’s 21 seaports, including Luanda and Lobito, are vital to its oil-driven economy. The government is implementing expansion projects to enhance trade capacity and improve logistics infrastructure.
4. Algeria – 17 Seaports/Trade Terminals
Algeria, with 17 seaports along the Mediterranean, depends on maritime trade for oil, gas, and agricultural exports. The Port of Algiers is its primary commercial hub, managing a significant share of the country’s imports and exports.
5. Tunisia – 16 Seaports/Trade Terminals
Tunisia relies on 16 seaports to support its export-oriented economy, which includes agricultural products, textiles, and machinery. The Port of Rades is the busiest, serving as a key trade link with Europe and other global markets.
6. Libya – 14 Seaports/Trade Terminals
Despite political challenges, Libya maintains 14 seaports along its Mediterranean coastline. Ports such as Tripoli and Benghazi are crucial for oil exports and the importation of essential goods.
7. Madagascar – 13 Seaports/Trade Terminals
As an island nation, Madagascar depends heavily on its 13 seaports for trade. The Port of Toamasina is the largest, handling major exports such as vanilla, coffee, and seafood.
8. Morocco – 12 Seaports/Trade Terminals
With 12 seaports, Morocco is a key maritime player in North Africa. The Port of Tangier Med is a major transshipment hub linking Africa to Europe, Asia, and the Americas, while Casablanca and Agadir ports support local industries.
9. Mozambique – 11 Seaports/Trade Terminals
Mozambique’s 11 seaports are critical for exporting coal, natural gas, and agricultural products. The Port of Maputo, the largest in the country, plays a key role in trade within southern Africa.
10. Gabon – 9 Seaports/Trade Terminals
Gabon, with 9 seaports, relies on maritime trade for its oil and timber exports. The Port of Owendo serves as the country’s main commercial hub, supporting both regional and international trade.
With ongoing investments in port infrastructure, African countries are strengthening their trade capacities, positioning themselves as key players in global maritime commerce.
