MATADI

• Latitude: -5.82
•
• Longitude: 13.452
•
• West Africa
•
• Port in Congo - Kinshasa

Address: Matadi Bas-Congo Congo - Kinshasa

Phone number: +243

Web-site: http://www.portmatadi.com

Matadi Port:

Location: Matadi is a key port city located in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (Congo - Kinshasa). Situated on the Congo River, Matadi serves as the main gateway for maritime trade for the country.

Geographical Coordination:

• Latitude: Approximately -5.8368
• Longitude: Approximately 13.4595

Port Description:

Waterway Access: The port is situated along the Congo River, which is a significant navigational route leading inland. However, the access to Matadi is limited by the river's navigable conditions upstream, including rapids which restrict further penetration by larger vessels.

Facilities:

1. Terminals and Berths:

   • Offers berths for handling various types of cargo including containers, bulk goods, break-bulk, and general cargo.
   • Equipped with container terminals capable of handling standard TEUs and more substantial container loads.
   • Bulk handling facilities for materials such as minerals and agricultural produce.
   • Storage facilities are available for various goods including bonded warehouses.

2. Cranes and Loaders:

   • The port is equipped with mobile and stationary cranes suitable for different cargoes.
   • Facilities include gantry cranes for container handling and other specialized lifting equipment.

3. Depth and Draft:

   • The port can generally handle vessels with an average draft of around 8-9 meters, though this can be influenced by the river's seasonal variations.
   • Regular dredging activities are undertaken to maintain adequate drafts for safe vessel movements.

4. Navigation Aids:

   • Equipped with modern navigation aids, ensuring safe docking and undocking of vessels.
   • Pilotage is typically compulsory for all vessels entering the port area.

Services:

• Customs and immigration services are available to facilitate the entry and exit of goods and personnel.
• Bunker and supply services are provided for vessels.
• Repair and maintenance services are available, with dry dock facilities for smaller vessels.

Connectivity:

• Road and Rail Links:
  • The port has connectivity with road and rail networks extending to the interior of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
  • Rail services connect Matadi with Kinshasa, which is essential for the flow of goods inland.

Key Commodities Handled:

• Petroleum products, machinery, manufactured goods, containerized cargo, agricultural products, minerals, etc.

Strategic Importance:

• Matadi port is vital for the country's trade, facilitating a significant portion of its imports and exports. Its positioning enables it to serve as a critical point for maritime logistics in Central Africa.

Expansion and Modernization Efforts:

• Ongoing projects aimed at expanding the port's capacity and improving its infrastructure to handle larger vessels and more cargo efficiently.
• Investment in modernizing handling equipment and storage facilities to enhance operational efficiency.

Challenges:

• Navigational challenges due to the Congo River's condition.
• Maintenance requirements for infrastructure and equipment.

Port Authority:

• Managed by the Congolese River Ports Authority (Société Congolaise des Ports et Transports - SCPT).

Usefull Contact Information:

• It is recommended for shipping agents to contact local port authorities or the SCPT for the latest updates on port operations, tariffs, and regulatory requirements.

In summary, Matadi Port is an essential maritime hub for the Democratic Republic of the Congo, offering comprehensive facilities and services despite logistical and geographical challenges.