Blog: Unlocking growth in Africa through logistics, integration and partnerships – by Igor van den Essen, Chief Executive, Africa & Europe

Last week at the Africa CEO Forum in Abidjan, the energy was undeniable. More than 2,000 leaders and decision-makers gathered to explore how unlocking capital and strengthening logistics and infrastructure can unleash the continent’s next growth phase. The message was clear: Africa’s future is being shaped now – and momentum is on our side.

As a panelist and participant in many productive stakeholder conversations, I left the forum with a reinforced belief: the will to act is there. The opportunities are within reach; we have solutions at hand, and now is the time to press play on Africa’s next phase of growth.

Africa is set to play a vital role in global trade, driven by its rapidly growing populations and economies. Yet, without major investment in ports, roads and rail, its infrastructure gap will only widen. As global supply chains shift and uncertainty becomes the norm, APM Terminals brings a global perspective and a clear focus: delivering reliability, stability and agility. But for trade to truly thrive, market readiness must be matched by a stable environment.

Power in partnerships

At the forum, a recurring theme stood out: the essential role of public-private partnerships to enable long-term development. At APM Terminals, we firmly believe that lasting infrastructure, inclusive employment and sustainable growth are only possible when governments and businesses work together – sharing knowledge and co-investing in the future.

This is precisely the mindset guiding our engagement in, for instance, Nigeria. We are in active discussions with the port authority and government partners to upgrade our terminal in Lagos to service larger vessels, strengthen connectivity and lower the cost of doing business. This is operational excellence in action, built on local collaboration, long-term planning and customer-centric design to create joint predictability and stability.

Investing in a shared future

Ports are not standalone assets; they are important cogs in a much larger ecosystem. From first-mile transportation to inland storage and last-mile distribution, efficiency across the full logistics chain is what drives value for producers, customers and consumers alike.

That’s why our investments go beyond the quay. We’re building integrated logistics services – including cold chain solutions, distribution hubs and digital tools – that boost safety, reliability and performance across the board. Integration is how we remove barriers, unlock efficiencies and deliver results for all stakeholders.

Economic development is directly linked to robust port infrastructure. Seaport upgrades, inland connectivity and corridor developments are among the most effective levers for improving competitiveness, boosting exports and driving the economy.

Investing in infrastructure is investing in Africa’s future. It strengthens local industries, attracts private investment and provides the foundation for stable and self-sustaining growth.

What I take away from this past week is simple: the will is there; the opportunities are abundant, and the partnerships are forming. Now, we need to act – with urgency, clarity and shared purpose.