Global marine terminal operator DP World has officially taken control of operations at the Port of Algiers, now known as DP World Djazair. The addition of Algiers and shortly Djen Djen, Algeria, brings DP World's global network to 49 terminals in 27 countries. The handover follows an official signing ceremony held in Algiers on Nov. 10, 2008. DP World's 30-year concession is consistent with Algeria's strategy to develop the two ports of Algiers and Djen Djen in line with national interests: DP World Djazair, which handles more than 60 percent of the country's external trade, will be developed further to serve primarily domestic needs, while Djen Djen will become the main terminus for the eastern part of the country, as well as a transshipment hub for the Western Mediterranean. Algiers will benefit immediately from the expertise embodied in DP World's world-class management team. Priorities include reducing congestion and administrative delays at the port, which have seriously impeded Algeria's competitiveness in recent years. As a first step towards its training goals, the company will send several Algerian workers to DP World terminals at Djibouti, Dakar and Dubai for 2-month apprenticeships. DP World expects to assume operation of Djen Djen port, to be known as DP World Djen Djen, in late April 2009. DP World CEO Mohammed Sharaf said: “While we are a global port operator, we are, importantly, an active member of the communities in which we operate. As with our other terminals, we will be investing in training and development of local people in Algeria, offering new opportunities for career growth as part of a global company. At the same time, we are pleased to be able to add Algeria to our global network, enhancing our ability to serve customers in North Africa.” DP World Djazair Director General Mohamed Al Khadar said: “The Port of Algiers, now DP World Djazair, has tremendous potential, and will play a critical role in facilitating Algeria's growth and development. We are very excited to put the management expertise, technology and entrepreneurial spirit of DP World to work in realizing the port's potential for the benefit of our customers and Algerian people.”
