Central African Republic Begins Construction of Key Mongoumba Port for Regional Trade

As an inland nation heavily dependent on its neighbors for market access, CAR stands to benefit enormously from improved river logistics and reduced transport bottlenecks.

The Central African Republic (CAR) has entered a transformative phase in the development of the Pointe-Noire–Brazzaville–Bangui–N'Djamena (CD13) multimodal transport corridor, following the laying of the foundation stone for the Mongoumba (Mangombé) River Port on 10 December 2025. The ceremony marks a critical step toward boosting regional integration, trade, and economic opportunity across Central Africa.

A Milestone for Regional Connectivity and Economic Transformation

Presided over by President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, the event brought together Prime Minister Félix Moloua, senior government officials, community leaders, development partners, and the African Development Bank’s interim Country Manager, Boye Kissagne.

President Touadéra emphasized the port’s symbolic and strategic importance:

“We are laying more than a stone: we are laying the foundation of something that will bring growth, hope and opportunities for our country.”

He highlighted that the Mongoumba port represents a decisive turning point in CAR’s efforts to leverage its geographical, hydraulic, and human assets to strengthen openness, connectivity, and economic exchange in Central Africa.

Strengthening the CD13 Corridor: A Strategic Regional Asset

Located along the Ubangi River, the Mongoumba port will be a vital transport link between CAR and the Republic of Congo. Once completed, the port is expected to:

• Improve cargo flow management between river and road transport

• Reduce transport delays and lower the cost of goods, easing inflationary pressures

• Enhance regional trade efficiency along the multimodal CD13 pathway

• Stimulate private sector investment in logistics, commerce, and financial services

• Create employment opportunities, particularly in transport and port services

As an inland nation heavily dependent on its neighbors for market access, CAR stands to benefit enormously from improved river logistics and reduced transport bottlenecks.

Major Financing Support from the African Development Fund

The African Development Fund (ADF), the concessional financing window of the African Development Bank Group, has committed a substantial $282 million grant to the port development—demonstrating the Bank’s strong leadership in infrastructure financing.

ADF interim Country Manager Boye Kissagne noted:

“Today, we are not simply launching an infrastructure project; we are opening the door to a future firmly focused on shared prosperity. The Port of Mongoumba is a symbol of resilience, courage, and determination to advance despite challenges.”

Construction Timeline and Implementation Partners

The port construction will span 24 months, executed by the Italian–Egyptian Selip–Rowad consortium. Engineering oversight will be provided by the SCET Tunisie / Lege Engineering consortium.

The project is designed to ensure resilience, efficiency, and sustainability, enabling CAR to strengthen its position within regional trade networks.

Building on a Growing Portfolio of Development Investments

The African Development Bank Group currently finances 20 ongoing projects in CAR totaling $583 million, with investments distributed across:

• Transport – 51%

• Water and sanitation – 21%

• Agriculture – 12%

• Energy, governance, social sectors, and finance – 16%

These investments reflect the Bank’s long-term commitment to improving infrastructure, strengthening basic services, and supporting socioeconomic development in one of Africa’s most vulnerable nations.

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The Mongoumba port symbolizes more than improved transport logistics—it represents renewed hope, economic resilience, and CAR’s determination to integrate more deeply into regional and continental markets. As construction begins, the project stands as a flagship example of how targeted infrastructure investment can catalyze growth, stability, and opportunity for millions.