Global shipping routes are shifting rapidly as vessels increasingly bypass the Suez Canal and Bab el-Mandeb Strait due to ongoing Middle East tensions, opting instead for the longer route around the Cape of Good Hope. The change, triggered by attacks on Red Sea shipping since late 2023, is boosting Africa’s role as a key refuelling hub for international maritime trade.
Major carriers including Maersk, Hapag-Lloyd, and CMA CGM have rerouted vessels, significantly increasing traffic along African coasts. This has driven demand for bunkering services the supply of fuel to ships attracting both established players such as Monjasa and new entrants expanding operations across West and Southern Africa. Ports in South Africa, Namibia, Mauritius, and Nigeria are positioning themselves to capture this growing market.
For African economies, the shift presents significant investment opportunities. Bunkering generates revenue for port authorities, creates employment in logistics and fuel supply chains, and supports related industries such as warehousing and ship repair. It also enhances the strategic importance of African ports in global maritime networks, potentially attracting further investment in port infrastructure.
However, challenges remain. Many African ports face infrastructure constraints, including limited berthing capacity, inadequate fuel storage facilities, and underdeveloped support services. Regulatory hurdles, including complex customs procedures and inconsistent enforcement, can also deter operators. Additionally, fuel supply risks, including the availability of compliant low-sulphur fuels, must be managed to meet international shipping standards.
Industry players expect Africa’s bunkering sector to see sustained growth as route changes become a long-term reality. The rerouting around the Cape of Good Hope adds approximately 10–14 days to voyages between Asia and Europe, making refuelling stops essential. For African ports, capturing a larger share of this market requires coordinated investment, regulatory reform, and strategic positioning to attract major shipping lines.
