Djibouti inaugurates largest shiprepair yard in East Africa
Container vessels at the Port of Djibouti (Source: DPFZA)
Djibouti has inaugurated the Djibouti Ship Repair Yard (DSRY), described by officials as the largest facility of its kind in East Africa and the Red Sea region. The government said the yard will provide critical repair and maintenance services along one of the world’s busiest shipping routes.
President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh said, “The DSRY project has always been a national priority, given Djibouti’s strategic location at the entrance to the Bab el-Mandeb, one of the world’s busiest maritime routes.”
Developed with Damen Shipyards and supported by Invest International, the project represents an investment of €107.5 million (approximately $124 million). The yard spans 80 hectares and offers more than 800m of berth. A floating dock measuring 217m with a lifting capacity of 20,100 tonnes has been commissioned.
Operations began in October 2025 with the drydocking of the Djibouti-flagged containership Africa Sun. The vessel underwent hull inspections, painting, structural and deck repairs, and work on tanks, piping, and electrical systems.
Officials said they will market the yard’s capabilities to attract international clients, although no timeline has been given for full operational capacity.
