Somalia: Puntland launches Bossaso port expansion project

BOSSASO, Somalia, May 28, 2015(Garowe Online)-The President of Somalia’s Puntland Government Dr. Abdiweli Mohamed Ali has launched Bossaso port expansion project on Thursday, Garowe Online reports.

President Ali presided over a signing ceremony attended by other Puntland government officials and Divers Marine Contracting L.L.C representatives at Bossaso presidential palace.

Puntland Ports and Marine Transport Minister Abdullahi Jama Salah and Divers Managing Director Mr. Abdullah Darwish signed port expansion project deal.

Government has not disclosed further details on the duration and costs allotted for Bossaso port infrastructure upgrade.

GO learned that Divers Marine Contracting L.L.C is owned by AUE-based Palestinian who resides in Ras al-Khaimah.

Puntland has been pondering a plan to hand over management of Bossaso port to another UAE-based firm, DP World.

DP World officials previously visited Puntland, touring Bossaso and the Indian Ocean town of Gara’ad.

In his last trip to Dubai, Ali discussed issues pertaining to Bossaso port with DP World management.

DB World is poised to handle services at port in the Red sea town of Bebera in breakaway Somaliland region.

It is unclear whether Bossaso port renovation contract stipulates expansion of terminals and shipping network facitilies due to shallow water harbor and increasing cargo volume. 

GAROWE ONLINE