In recent years, Turkish construction companies have increasingly focused on air and sea port projects across Africa, playing a key role in enhancing the continent’s transportation infrastructure. Summa Construction, for example, is directing its efforts toward airport projects in Nigeria, while Ankara-based Metag Holding has signed a deal to develop Somalia’s Hobyo Port with a $70 million investment.
Turkish companies have earned recognition for their significant contributions to improving both air and maritime transportation systems in Africa. Metag Holding’s new agreement is designed to enhance the Mogadishu Port, which serves as a vital hub for Somali trade.
Through collaboration with the Hobyo Investment Company, Metag’s investment will transform Hobyo Port into a regional trade center. This development will alleviate the strain on Mogadishu Port and provide alternative routes to Ethiopia and Djibouti. Hobyo Port, located in the Galmudug region with a population of 11,000, will strengthen the region’s connectivity to maritime trade routes.
A Long-Term Commitment to Development
Ahmed Abdi Kariye, the head of Somalia’s Galmudug State, highlighted the importance of the project, stating, “This port will not only stimulate our regional economy but also enhance trade and connectivity, benefiting the entire nation.” The agreement stipulates an 80-year operational period for Metag, with the port expected to become operational after a three-year construction phase.
The Hobyo project has been in the works for several years, with initial interest from Qatari-backed firms in 2020. However, the public-private partnership proposal failed to materialize, leading to Metag’s involvement.
Investment in Somali Maritime Infrastructure Continues
Turkey’s involvement in Somalia’s maritime transport sector has deepened with Metag Holding and Albayrak Group’s management of Mogadishu Port. Since 2014, Albayrak has operated Mogadishu Port under a 20-year agreement, making it the primary hub for Somali maritime cargo and a key international trade gateway in East Africa.
Expanding Turkish Presence in Africa
Meanwhile, Summa Construction is in formal discussions about a new airport project in Nigeria. After completing successful airport projects in Niger, Senegal, Guinea-Bissau, and Sierra Leone, Summa is pursuing the Lekki-Epe International Airport project in Lagos, Nigeria. Recently, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu visited Turkey to discuss the project with Summa’s chairman, Selim Bora.
Summa began its African operations in 2017 with the construction of Senegal’s Blaise Diagne Airport and has since expanded with additional projects in Niger, Diffa International Airport in 2021, and Freetown International Airport in Sierra Leone. The company is currently developing the Osvaldo Vieira International Airport in Guinea-Bissau.
As Turkish companies deepen their involvement in Africa’s infrastructure, the aviation and maritime sectors offer significant potential for growth and collaboration.