(ARISE) - ARISE Integrated Industrial Platforms (ARISE IIP), a developer and operator of world-class industrial ecosystems in Africa, is pleased to announce the signing of a partnership agreement with the Port Authority of Douala (PAD) for the creation of the Dibamba Industrial Port Zone.

This ambitious public-private partnership aims to leverage the strategic sectors of Cameroon, aligning with the National Development Strategy 2030 (SND 30) to promote a diversified, resilient, and globally competitive economy.

The agreement outlines the establishment of an industrial ecosystem covering 517 hectares, which will include several distinct areas:

• A multimodal logistics hub, the Dibamba Douala-Port Logistics Platform (DDLP), featuring warehouses and storage facilities. This platform will help alleviate traffic congestion in Douala ;
• An integrated industrial park, the Dibamba Douala Industrial Platform (DDIP), which will be developed and equipped with infrastructure to foster industrialisation ;
• A single-window clearance for administrative procedures ;
• A vocational training center aimed at capacity building.

The primary goal of this project is to attract local and international investors to develop value chains focused on the transformation of local resources, particularly in the agro-industry, timber, construction materials, and pharmaceuticals.

Industries will be organized by sector, with individual plots of 5,000 square meters, which can be extended according to the needs of investors. The zone will also offer various incentives, including tax and customs benefits, as well as preferential access to global markets.

As the first initiative in Cameroon combining industrial and port facilities, the Dibamba Industrial Port Zone will be connected by the national road N3 and maritime routes to the port of Douala. Comprehensive environmental protection measures, including the conservation of sensitive areas, will be integrated into the zone's development plans.

The establishment of the Dibamba Industrial Port Zone represents a key milestone in Cameroon’s industrialisation, generating thousands of jobs and contributing to a sustainable economy.

Gagan Gupta, Founder and CEO of ARISE IIP, stated: “By combining our expertise with that of our partners at the Port Authority of Douala, we are poised to create a world-class industrial ecosystem that will enhance local resources, attract significant international investments, and generate thousands of jobs, fostering sustainable growth for Cameroon and the CEMAC region.”

About ARISE IIP

ARISE Integrated Industrial Platforms (ARISE IIP) is a pan-African developer and operator of world-class industrial parks committed to making Africa thrive. We identify opportunities in commercial and industrial value chains across Africa, and conceive, finance, build and operate the necessary infrastructure, playing a catalytic role in supporting countries to transition to an industrial economy. We are driven by the pursuit of green growth; our ambition is to unlock the continent’s industrial potential while neutralising our carbon emissions and climate impact. ARISE IIP currently operates in 11 countries, including Benin (GDIZ), Togo (PIA), Gabon (GSEZ), Cote d’Ivoire (PEIA), Nigeria (IPRFZ), Republic of Congo (PIC), Democratic Republic of Congo (CIP), Sierra Leone (SIZ), Malawi (MIP), Rwanda (BSEZ), and Chad (LAHAM TCHAD).

About the Port Authority of Douala

The Port Authority of Douala (PAD) is owned by the Cameroonian State. It is located in the estuary of the Wouri River on the coastal shore and opens onto the Atlantic Ocean. As a public limited company with legal personality and financial autonomy, the PAD is responsible for the management, promotion, and marketing of the Port of Douala.