Boureima Amadou
The inauguration of the Zongo Parking on Friday, May 22, 2026, marks a historic milestone for Benin’s road transport sector and port logistics management. The Autonomous Port of Cotonou (PAC) has unveiled this state-of-the-art facility, designed to revolutionize the handling of heavy freight and alleviate the city’s chronic congestion.
a 700-space haven at the port’s doorstep
Strategically positioned near the port’s perimeter, the Zongo Parking has become the new standard for truck transit in West Africa. The 13-hectare terminal, with its generous 700-vehicle capacity, replaces chaotic parking along the Marina Boulevard, offering a structured, high-capacity solution for the daily inflow of lorries serving Benin’s economic hub and neighboring Sahelian nations like Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali.
The facility features expansive maneuvering lanes and precisely engineered roundabouts, ensuring seamless vehicle flow and drastically reducing the risk of collisions—common in unregulated parking areas. Drivers now navigate with confidence, eliminating the stress of chaotic arrivals and departures.
smart logistics: digital innovation at its core
The Zongo Parking’s standout advantage lies in its fully integrated digital ecosystem. Connected to the Single Window for Foreign Trade (GUCE), the system streamlines operations through:
- Online reservations: Transporters can secure parking slots in advance, optimizing trip planning and minimizing downtime.
- Cashless payments: Parking fees and related charges are settled via secure digital platforms, eradicating the need for physical queues.
- Real-time tracking: Advanced surveillance cameras and automated guidance systems provide live updates on vehicle movements, enhancing security and transparency.
beyond parking: a sanctuary for truckers
The PAC’s ‘Rangazongo’ initiative transforms the parking into a ‘living space’ for drivers, addressing the grueling realities of long-haul trips across borders. Recognizing that trucks carry people, not just cargo, the facility includes:
- Modern restrooms and showers for hygiene and comfort.
- Dedicated relaxation zones to unwind during layovers.
- On-site dining options for quick, nutritious meals.
- 24/7 security with controlled access and high-efficiency lighting.
As one port official noted, ‘This isn’t just a parking lot—it’s a rest stop for heroes of the road.’
a catalyst for regional trade growth
With an investment of 25 billion FCFA under the Port of Cotonou’s modernization plan, the Zongo Parking underscores Benin’s commitment to becoming West Africa’s premier logistics gateway. By centralizing truck entry points, the facility accelerates port operations, cuts delays, and bolsters the port’s competitiveness in the subregion.
For transporters, the era of aimless idling on Cotonou’s streets is over. The Zongo Parking delivers efficiency, comfort, and a new benchmark for logistics infrastructure in Africa.
