"The cost of logistics and the supply chain in Africa is very high compared to other global markets, which is a good opportunity," said Mohammed Akuji, chief executive officer and managing director of DP World Sub-Saharan Africa. The port operator is expanding operations in Dar es Salaam in Tanzania and recently assessed ports in South Africa and Kenya for potential investment.

According to Akuji, Africa's potential should be viewed from a long-term perspective rather than from a short-term macroeconomic perspective.

According to Akuji, the fast-growing market for key minerals, including copper from Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo, is helping to increase logistics capacity. "Over the past few years, we've seen an increase in demand, driven in large part by all the global electrification and demand for commodities like cobalt and lithium."

DP World's African division employs 27,000 people and covers ports, terminals, logistics and supply chain.