Hassan Dakhlallah’s journey in infrastructure development stands as a testament to his ability to combine business vision with a commitment to community development. As the Founder and CEO of PORTEO Group, he has led the company to become a prominent force in West and Central Africa’s construction industry. His approach to infrastructure projects goes beyond the construction of roads and buildings; it is about creating long-lasting economic opportunities and improving the lives of local communities.
Dakhlallah’s story began in 2012 when he founded NSE.CI (Nicolas Srouji Establishment Côte d'Ivoire) in response to the urgent need for specialized infrastructure services in post-crisis Côte d'Ivoire. The company initially focused on civil works and road construction, but he quickly expanded the scope to tackle more complex urban development projects. The company’s success in these early years laid the foundation for its transformation into PORTEO Group in 2020. Today, PORTEO operates across five countries—Côte d'Ivoire, Bénin, Togo, Senegal, and Gabon—and continues to grow rapidly, thanks to his unwavering leadership.
Under Dakhlallah’s direction, PORTEO has completed over 2,000 kilometers of roads and highways, significantly enhancing regional connectivity. These projects, including bridges and urban infrastructure, have linked remote communities, opened new trade routes, and facilitated access to essential services. He believes that infrastructure is more than just construction; it fosters economic growth and provides the foundation for broader social development. His work has helped create job opportunities and enhance mobility for countless individuals in the regions where PORTEO operates.
In addition to improving physical infrastructure, Dakhlallah has focused on strengthening local economies. PORTEO employs over 4,000 people, and the company’s operations have generated thousands more jobs through subcontracting. As the company’s revenues surged to €436 million (285 billion CFA francs) in 2023, he ensured that the economic benefits of PORTEO’s success were felt across the local communities. He has prioritized supporting local businesses by integrating them into the company’s supply chain, providing opportunities for entrepreneurs to thrive.
Sustainability is central to Dakhlallah’s leadership style. He strongly emphasizes environmentally friendly construction practices and is committed to minimizing the environmental impact of PORTEO’s projects. The company uses eco-friendly materials and innovative techniques to ensure efficient and sustainable work. He has also invested in workforce development, ensuring employees receive training and development opportunities to help them succeed within and beyond the company.
Beyond business, Dakhlallah has demonstrated his commitment to social responsibility through the PORTEO Foundation. The foundation funds various initiatives on education, women’s empowerment, and nutrition. One of the foundation’s key projects includes building self-sustaining school canteens that provide nutritious meals to students while creating educational opportunities. He believes that businesses should actively address the social needs of their communities.
Today, Hassan Dakhlallah is recognized as a visionary leader who has not only transformed the infrastructure landscape in Africa but has also created a model for sustainable development. Through his work with PORTEO, he continues to inspire change and build a brighter, more connected future for the people of Africa.
To learn more about Hassan Dakhlallah, click the link below:
https://porteo-group.com/porteo-group-marque-les-esprits-aux-spring-meetings-de-washington-2025/
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