Cotonou, Bénin — A new chapter in West African logistics has begun. On Friday, May 22, 2026, the Port Autonome de Cotonou (PAC) inaugurated the Parking Zongo, a state-of-the-art truck terminal designed to revolutionize the region’s supply chain operations and ease the daily grind for long-haul drivers.
a 700-capacity gateway to smoother port access
The Parking Zongo stands just minutes from the port’s gates, offering a structured alternative to the chaos of unregulated parking along the Boulevard de la Marina. Spanning 13 hectares, this modern facility provides dedicated space for up to 700 trucks at once, serving as a critical buffer for the steady stream of heavy goods vehicles that keep Bénin’s—and neighboring countries like Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali—economies moving.
With wide maneuvering lanes, well-designed roundabouts, and clear traffic flow, the terminal minimizes delays and reduces the risk of accidents that once plagued the cramped, unregulated parking zones. Drivers no longer face the frustration of navigating chaotic streets or scrambling for a spot at the last minute.
smart technology streamlines operations
The Parking Zongo is more than just a parking lot—it’s a digitalized logistics hub. Fully integrated with the Guichet Unique du Commerce Extérieur (GUCE), the terminal leverages cutting-edge systems to enhance efficiency:
- Online reservations: Transport companies and drivers can book parking slots in advance, ensuring seamless planning and eliminating last-minute scrambles.
- Cashless payments: All parking fees are processed through secure digital platforms, cutting wait times at physical counters and speeding up turnaround times.
- Real-time tracking: Advanced surveillance cameras and automated guidance systems provide live updates on vehicle movements, improving transparency and security.
a sanctuary for drivers on the move
The project, dubbed ‘Rangazongo’, goes beyond logistics by prioritizing driver well-being. Recognizing the physical toll of long-haul routes across borders, the PAC has created a restorative space where truckers can recharge before hitting the road again.
The facility features:
- Modern washrooms and private shower stalls
- Comfortable rest areas with reclining seats and shaded zones
- On-site catering options to sustain energy during long waits
- 24/7 security with biometric access control and high-efficiency lighting
This human-centric approach transforms the Parking Zongo into more than a transit point—it’s a temporary home for those who keep trade flowing.
boosting regional trade with a modern logistics hub
Developed as part of a broader 25 billion FCFA modernization plan for the Port Autonome de Cotonou, the Parking Zongo underscores Bénin’s commitment to becoming West Africa’s premier logistics gateway. By centralizing truck access and reducing bottlenecks, the terminal accelerates cargo handling and strengthens the port’s competitive edge in the subregion.
For transport operators, the days of idling indefinitely on Cotonou’s congested streets are over. The Parking Zongo delivers not just space, but speed, safety, and sustainability—ushering in a new era of efficiency for one of Africa’s most vital trade corridors.
