Bolloré, Maersk…Who controls Africa’s ports? - The Africa Report

Africa's port infrastructure has become a critical battleground for foreign investment and geopolitical influence, with European companies like Bolloré and Danish shipping giant Maersk playing dominant roles across the continent. However, emerging political instability—particularly in Kenya, where Generation Z activists are mobilizing to challenge incumbent leadership—presents both acute risks and strategic opportunities for European investors navigating African markets. The concentration of port control among foreign operators reflects a broader pattern of infrastructure privatization across Africa. Bolloré's extensive terminal operations span West Africa, while Maersk's penetration into East African ports underscores how European and global players have leveraged their capital and technical expertise to secure long-term concessions. These arrangements have delivered operational efficiencies and revenue streams, but they've also created tension with local governments and emerging political movements questioning whether foreign control of critical infrastructure serves national interests. Kenya's political landscape illustrates these tensions acutely. The emergence of INJECT—a Gen Z-led political movement designed to challenge President William Ruto's administration ahead of 2027 elections—reflects broader demographic shifts reshaping African politics. Younger voters, constituting over 75% of Kenya's population, are increasingly vocal about economic mismanagement, unemployment, and perceived inequitable distribution of resources. While the party remains nascent, its formation signals that infrastructure