The inauguration of the Zongo truck parking lot in Cotonou on May 22, 2026 marks a historic milestone in Benin’s road transport sector and port traffic management. The Port Autonome de Cotonou (PAC) has unveiled a state-of-the-art facility designed to revolutionize logistics operations and enhance conditions for long-haul truck drivers working across West Africa.
a modern 700-space terminal to ease port congestion
Strategically positioned at the gateway to the port, the new Zongo parking lot now serves as the primary holding area for heavy freight vehicles and logistics convoys heading to and from Benin and neighboring landlocked nations like Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali. Spanning 13 hectares, this massive facility eliminates the previous chaos of haphazard parking along the Marina Boulevard, offering 700 meticulously planned spaces equipped with generous maneuvering areas and well-designed roundabouts to ensure seamless vehicle movement.
These design features drastically reduce the risk of accidents and operational delays, providing truck drivers with a safer and far less stressful environment compared to the previous disorderly setup.
smart technology streamlines operations and cuts wait times
At the heart of the Zongo parking lot’s efficiency is its fully integrated digital ecosystem. Connected to the National Single Window for Foreign Trade (GUCE), the parking lot introduces intelligent systems that empower transporters and logistics companies to optimize their operations:
- Online space reservations: Drivers can book parking spots in advance, enabling precise trip planning and eliminating last-minute scrambles for space.
- Cashless payment solutions: Parking fees are settled securely through digital platforms, removing the need for drivers to queue at physical payment counters.
- Real-time tracking and guidance: Advanced video surveillance and automated vehicle guidance systems provide live monitoring of entries and exits, ensuring smooth and transparent logistics flow.
a driver-friendly hub beyond logistics
The PAC has gone beyond mere infrastructure by incorporating the ‘Rangazongo’ project, a dedicated social and rest area for truckers. Recognizing the grueling demands of cross-border haulage, the port authority has prioritized the well-being of drivers by integrating premium amenities:
- Modern sanitary blocks and showers for personal hygiene and comfort.
- Rest zones equipped with reclining benches and shaded relaxation areas.
- On-site dining facilities offering locally inspired meals and refreshments.
Enhanced by 24/7 security protocols, controlled access points, and high-performance lighting, the parking lot ensures maximum safety for both drivers and their valuable cargo.
a strategic boost for Benin’s role as a west african logistics leader
With an investment nearing 25 billion West African CFA francs, the Zongo parking lot is a cornerstone of Benin’s broader modernization agenda for the Port Autonome de Cotonou. By centralizing and streamlining truck traffic through a single, high-capacity transit point, the facility is set to significantly accelerate port operations and reinforce Cotonou’s standing as a vital logistics gateway for landlocked countries in the subregion.
For truckers, the era of endless queues on Cotonou’s congested streets is over. The Zongo parking lot ushers in a new era of efficiency, comfort, and modernity—one that promises to transform both the logistics landscape and the driver experience in West Africa.
