At a Glance
- DHL commits $349 million to expand logistics, aviation, and tech infrastructure across Sub-Saharan Africa.
- Investment supports AfCFTA trade growth and boosts connectivity in Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, and Ethiopia.
- DHL ramps up cold-chain, digital innovation, and sustainability to strengthen Africa’s global trade role.
DHL, a global logistics and shipping company, is stepping up its presence in Africa with a new €300 million ($349 million) investment aimed at strengthening trade routes, expanding logistics capacity, and supporting the region’s growing role in global commerce.
The multi-year plan spans DHL Express, DHL Global Forwarding, and DHL Supply Chain, marking one of the company’s largest coordinated pushes in Sub-Saharan Africa to date.
The investment covers new logistics centers, aviation expansion, and technology upgrades in key markets including Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, and Ethiopia.
Backing Africa’s trade ambitions
DHL’s renewed focus comes as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) gains momentum in linking regional markets.
The company’s Global Connectedness Tracker shows Sub-Saharan Africa posted a 10% rise in trade value in the first half of 2025, the highest increase worldwide. Trade volumes are expected to expand by an average of 4.3% annually through 2029.
“Africa is at a crucial point in its trade development,” said John Pearson, CEO of DHL Express. “This investment underscores our belief in the continent’s resilience and long-term potential.
By improving our network reliability, we’re giving local businesses from small exporters to large manufacturers the tools to compete internationally.”
Expanding aviation and cold-chain networks
DHL Express plans to upgrade regional air gateways and increase flight frequency to serve more second-tier cities. As the only logistics company with a dedicated air network in Sub-Saharan Africa, DHL is deepening trade corridors that link African cities with Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.
DHL Global Forwarding will scale its operations in key growth sectors such as energy, agriculture, and healthcare, with a focus on temperature-controlled and cold-chain logistics for perishables and pharmaceuticals.
DHL Global Forwarding will focus on energy, agriculture, and healthcare logistics particularly in temperature-controlled and cold-chain solutions critical for perishable goods and pharmaceuticals.
“We’re improving digital visibility and control for clients navigating complex trade conditions,” said Amadou Diallo, CEO for the Middle East and Africa.
Meanwhile, DHL Supply Chain is adding warehouse capacity and transportation hubs in South Africa to support industries such as healthcare, automotive, and manufacturing.
“Our aim is to build capacity and quality that can grow with evolving supply chains,” said Orkun Saruhanoglu, the division’s regional CEO.
Sustainable trade and digital innovation
Beyond infrastructure, DHL is expanding its GoTrade initiative, a program that trains African small and medium-sized businesses in customs and trade compliance.
The company is also testing AI-based route optimization, digital customs systems, and renewable energy projects as part of its global goal to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
With operations spanning every African market, DHL’s new investment highlights both commitment and optimism. The company’s growing footprint reflects a broader story, one of a region building the infrastructure, technology, and skills needed to participate fully in global trade.
