DHL Group has announced a bold €300+ million investment plan in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), underscoring its deep confidence in the continent’s future as a global trade powerhouse. The multi-year initiative, which will span DHL Express, DHL Global Forwarding, and DHL Supply Chain, is set to boost logistics infrastructure, service reliability, and trade opportunities across key industries—including e-commerce, energy, healthcare, and agriculture. Africa’s trade story is one of resilience and growth. As the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) continues to open new regional and global trade routes, the continent’s connectivity is accelerating. According to DHL’s Global Connectedness Tracker (2025), Sub-Saharan Africa recorded a 10% year-on-year increase in trade value—outpacing North America’s 7% and South America’s 5%. Forecasts suggest that trade volumes in the region will rise by an average of 4.3% annually between 2025 and 2029, second only to South and Central Asia. John Pearson, CEO of DHL Express, emphasized the company’s belief in Africa’s potential. “Africa is at a pivotal moment in its trade journey,” he said. “Despite global volatility, the continent continues to show resilience and momentum. Our investment reflects confidence in Africa’s trajectory and DHL’s commitment to enabling the trade flows that drive inclusive growth.”
Building Stronger Connections for African Businesses
One of the major focus areas of DHL’s investment will be expanding its logistics and air network infrastructure. DHL Express plans to upgrade gateways, add aviation capacity, and extend delivery coverage to emerging cities that are becoming new trade centers under AfCFTA. As the only logistics provider with a dedicated air network in Sub-Saharan Africa, DHL’s expansion will strengthen connections between Africa, Europe, and Asia—particularly in fast-growing markets such as Nigeria and Ethiopia. Hennie Heymans, CEO of DHL Express Sub-Saharan Africa, noted that being closer to customers is key. “Businesses want predictable transit times and consistent delivery performance,” he said. “By raising the bar on service and proximity, we’ll help more African companies trade efficiently and compete on a bigger stage.” The investment also highlights DHL’s commitment to supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through its GoTrade program—offering customs training and mentorship to help local entrepreneurs access international markets.
Expanding Sector Expertise and Sustainable Growth
Beyond logistics infrastructure, DHL Global Forwarding will channel resources into sectors that are shaping Africa’s economic future. This includes energy and industrial projects, agriculture and perishables, and life sciences and healthcare. The company is enhancing cold-chain systems for exporters and building specialized transport solutions for pharmaceuticals—crucial for public health supply chains. Amadou Diallo, CEO of DHL Global Forwarding Middle East & Africa, explained that reliability and digital transparency are central to this next phase. “We are strengthening forwarding solutions with deeper local expertise and enhanced digital tools, giving clients clearer control of their shipments,” he said. Similarly, DHL Supply Chain will expand its operations in South Africa, focusing on temperature-sensitive logistics and transport-led services to meet the rising demand for specialized, outsourced supply chains. “By adding capacity and applying our contract logistics expertise, we’ll help customers scale with confidence,” said Orkun Saruhanoglu, CEO of DHL Supply Chain Middle East & Africa. In line with its global sustainability goals, DHL will also roll out renewable energy and alternative fuel projects across its African operations while integrating AI-driven tools for route optimization and customs clearance — all aimed at cutting carbon emissions and trade delays. As Africa’s economies evolve, DHL’s €300 million investment signals more than growth; it reflects a deep partnership with a continent ready to define the future of global trade.
