Hassan Dakhlallah Male • Côte d'Ivoire
Hassan Dakhlallah’s work in Africa’s infrastructure development has positioned him as one of the continent’s most respected entrepreneurs. As the founder and CEO of PORTEO Group, he has transformed the company into a leading force in the construction industry across West and Central Africa. His approach focuses on creating long-term economic growth while improving local communities through strategic infrastructure development.
In 2012, Dakhlallah founded NSE.CI (Nicolas Srouji Establishment Côte d'Ivoire) to address the need for specialized infrastructure services in Côte d'Ivoire, which was recovering from a period of political instability. His company initially concentrated on civil works and road construction, responding to the urgent infrastructure demands of the region. Under his guidance, NSE.CI quickly established itself as a key player in the local market, and by 2020, it had transformed into PORTEO Group. Today, PORTEO operates across five countries, including Côte d'Ivoire, Bénin, Togo, Senegal, and Gabon, significantly impacting the region’s infrastructure.
Under Dakhlallah’s leadership, PORTEO has completed over 2,000 kilometers of roads and highways, dramatically improving regional transportation networks. These projects have enhanced access to essential services, facilitated trade, and boosted regional economic integration. His focus on infrastructure as a driver of economic opportunity has allowed his company to contribute meaningfully to developing its communities, linking isolated areas with larger markets, and fostering growth.
Dakhlallah’s impact goes beyond building infrastructure; it extends to creating jobs and contributing to economic development. PORTEO employs more than 4,000 people, and its expansion has created thousands more jobs through local subcontracting and partnerships. This approach has been instrumental in reducing unemployment and supporting local economies. In 2023, PORTEO reported revenue of €436 million (285 billion CFA francs), showcasing its success in delivering large-scale projects and creating value for the region.
A strong advocate for sustainability, Dakhlallah ensures that environmental considerations are at the core of PORTEO’s projects. The company uses eco-friendly materials and construction practices to minimize its ecological footprint while providing its infrastructure with high quality and durability. He has integrated innovative technologies into the construction process, ensuring that the company remains at the forefront of sustainable practices in the industry.
Beyond his business achievements, Dakhlallah is also dedicated to making a positive social impact. Through the PORTEO Foundation, he supports various initiatives to improve education, nutrition, and women’s empowerment in local communities. The foundation’s programs include creating self-sustaining school canteens, providing nutritious meals, and promoting educational opportunities for young students, particularly in underserved regions.
Hassan Dakhlallah’s leadership has transformed PORTEO Group into a regional powerhouse that has reshaped Africa’s infrastructure landscape. His ability to align business success with social responsibility has made him a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs. Through his work, he continues to contribute to Africa’s development, proving that infrastructure can be both a driver of economic growth and a tool for improving lives across the continent.
