Hassan Dakhlallah strengthens economic independence through local material manufacturing

Hassan Dakhlallah’s leadership in the infrastructure sector has been a key driver of economic development in several African nations. His entrepreneurial vision and strategic approach have allowed him to shape the growth of critical infrastructure that supports economic growth, community development, and regional connectivity. As a leader, he has shown that infrastructure is not just about roads and bridges; it’s about creating lasting impacts that resonate with local populations.

The journey to creating PORTEO Group began in 2012 with the founding of NSE.CI (Nicolas Srouji Establishment Côte d’Ivoire), a company dedicated to addressing the urgent infrastructure needs of Côte d’Ivoire. Following the country's recovery from civil unrest, there was an immediate demand for roads, bridges, and other civil works to enable mobility and restore economic activity. Recognizing this need, Dakhlallah focused on NSE.CI on delivering these essential services, which quickly gained the trust of local governments and business partners.

As the company grew, Dakhlallah identified opportunities to scale the operations beyond Côte d’Ivoire’s borders. In 2020, he rebranded NSE.CI to PORTEO Group, with an expanded vision that encompassed regional growth. PORTEO’s focus shifted to the broader West and Central African markets, with operations now spanning Côte d’Ivoire, Bénin, Togo, Senegal, and Gabon. This expansion allowed him to apply his proven strategy across different contexts, addressing local infrastructure needs while fostering economic integration.

One of PORTEO’s most significant achievements has been its contribution to the regional connectivity of West and Central Africa. Under Dakhlallah’s leadership, the company has completed over 2,000 kilometers of roads and highways, enabling better trade and transportation links between key cities and rural areas. These projects have played an important role in enhancing mobility, improving access to essential services, and facilitating regional commerce.

Beyond roadworks, Dakhlallah’s company has catalyzed growth in multiple industries. By focusing on infrastructure that supports long-term economic development, PORTEO has created thousands of jobs. Today, the company employs over 4,000 people, including those working through subcontractors. In 2023, PORTEO achieved a revenue of approximately 285 billion CFA francs, or €436 million, underscoring the scale of its regional operations.

PORTEO’s work has earned it recognition from both national and international bodies. In 2024, Jeune Afrique ranked the company among the Top 500 African companies, a testament to its growing influence in the construction and infrastructure sectors. At the International Africa Development Forum (FIAD) in Casablanca, PORTEO was recognized for its commitment to South-South cooperation and its impact on regional development.

Dakhlallah’s leadership has also guided the company into new industries. Recognizing the need for modern infrastructure beyond roads, PORTEO has expanded into high-tech areas such as data centers. The company has also ventured into sectors like hospitality and agribusiness, ensuring its projects support diverse economic pillars essential to the region's growth.

Hassan Dakhlallah of Porteo’s leadership philosophy centers on sustainability, not just in terms of environmental impact but also regarding social and economic outcomes. His approach is grounded in the belief that infrastructure should drive inclusive growth. He prioritizes creating opportunities for local communities and ensures that the benefits of infrastructure projects extend beyond the completion of the roads and buildings.