The investment cements Abidjan’s importance as one of the busiest ports in West Africa.
by Blue Africa News
CARENA (Compagnie Abidjanaise de Réparation Navale), the Abidjan-based ship repair and maintenance company, has announced an investment of 12.5 billion FCFA (approximately US$20.6 million) in the acquisition of a 12,000-tonne floating dock, boosting Ivory Coast’s ship repair capacity.
The firm is a subsidiary of Africa Global Logistics (AGL) and SOFIA, with the floating dock set to arrive in Côte d’Ivoire in October 2025.
With CARENA playing a strategic role in West Africa’s maritime industry, the investment cements Abidjan’s importance as one of the region’s busiest ports.
“This investment strengthens our ability to deliver fast, reliable, and competitive solutions while supporting local expertise and the broader Ivorian economy,” said CARENA Managing Director Jean-François Arhant in a statement on August 28.
Arhant said the new dock, measuring 144 metres by 48 metres, will enable the lifting and servicing of larger vessels and allow simultaneous handling of multiple units.
Once commissioned, he added, CARENA will operate three floating docks, 2,000 tons, 10,000 tons, and the new 12,000-ton unit, placing the Abidjan yard as one of the most capable ship repair hubs in Africa.
Reports indicate that the dock is currently undergoing technical preparation, including anti-corrosion treatment, equipment inspection, crane upgrades, and branding.
Established in 1953, CARENA remains one of West Africa’s benchmark shipyards, while AGL is the leading multimodal logistics operator in Africa.
The company offers integrated port, rail, road, and maritime services across 50 countries.
On the other hand, SOFIA is an Ivorian investment and holding company with deep roots in Abidjan’s industrial and maritime sectors.
Oliver Ochieng, Blue Africa News