Conference Paper

ENHANCING SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIC GROWTH IN SUB- SAHARAN AFRICA THROUGH RESILIENT MARITIME INFRASTRUCTURE

Maritime infrastructure is essential for international trade and economic development, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa, seaports serve as the main gateways for imports and exports. However, the region’s ports are often constrained by inadequate facilities, congestion, weak intermodal connectivity, outdated equipment, and low technological adoption. These challenges are worsened by climate change impacts, weak governance, and limited investment, leading to high logistics costs and reduced trade efficiency. This paper examines the role of resilient maritime infrastructure in promoting sustainable economic growth in Sub-Saharan Africa. Resilient maritime infrastructure refers to the ability of port systems and logistics networks to anticipate, withstand, adapt to, and recover from disruptions such as environmental hazards, economic shocks, and operational failures. The study adopts a qualitative and conceptual approach, relying on secondary sources including journals, policy documents, and institutional reports. Findings indicate that resilient maritime infrastructure improves trade efficiency, lowers logistics costs, attracts foreign investment, and supports industrialization and regional integration. In contrast, weak port systems continue to limit competitiveness and sustainable economic development in the region. The paper concludes that strengthening maritime infrastructure resilience is critical for sustainable economic growth in Sub-Saharan Africa. It recommends investment in modern smart ports, climate-resilient infrastructure, improved governance, and stronger regional cooperation through public–private partnerships. Keywords: Maritime infrastructure, resilience, sustainable growth, Sub-Saharan Africa, trade efficiency.