On May 22, 2026, Cotonou reached a milestone in its logistics and transportation history with the inauguration of the Zongo Truck Parking, a state-of-the-art facility designed to revolutionize how heavy goods vehicles operate in and around the Port of Cotonou. This modern infrastructure, developed by the Autonomous Port of Cotonou (PAC), signals a new era for road transport and port traffic management in Benin.
a spacious 700-spot terminal to ease congestion
The Zongo Truck Parking is strategically located near the port’s main entrance, serving as a critical buffer zone for the daily influx of trucks transporting goods across West Africa. With a capacity of 700 parking spots spread over 13 hectares, this terminal eliminates the need for chaotic roadside parking along the Marina boulevard, where trucks once clogged the streets and created unsafe conditions for both drivers and pedestrians.
Designed with ample maneuvering space and well-planned roundabouts, the facility ensures smooth vehicle flow, minimizing the risk of accidents and reducing the stress associated with navigating and parking large trucks in congested urban areas.
smart technology drives efficiency
The heart of the Zongo Truck Parking lies in its digital infrastructure. Fully integrated with the Single Window for External Trade (GUCE), the parking lot leverages cutting-edge technology to streamline operations for transporters and logistics companies. Drivers and fleet managers can now:
- Book parking spots online in advance, allowing for better trip planning and time management.
- Pay parking fees digitally through secure platforms, eliminating long waits at physical payment counters.
- Monitor vehicle movements in real time via advanced surveillance systems and automated guidance tools, ensuring smooth and transparent operations.
a driver-friendly space beyond logistics
The PAC has gone beyond merely creating a parking lot by introducing ‘Rangazongo’, a social and rest area tailored specifically for long-haul truck drivers. Recognizing the physical toll of cross-border journeys, the port authority has included top-tier amenities to support drivers’ well-being:
- Modern sanitary blocks and showers for personal hygiene.
- Comfortable rest areas and relaxation zones to unwind after long drives.
- Convenient food and beverage points to ensure access to meals and refreshments.
The entire complex is secured with rigorous access controls and high-performance lighting, providing peace of mind for drivers and protecting their valuable cargo.
boosting Benin’s role as a west african logistics hub
Developed as part of a broader modernization initiative for the Port of Cotonou, the Zongo Truck Parking represents a 25 billion FCFA investment that underscores Benin’s commitment to enhancing its position as a key logistics hub in West Africa. By centralizing truck access and streamlining port entry, the facility is expected to speed up cargo handling, reduce bottlenecks, and strengthen the port’s long-term competitiveness.
For transporters, the days of endless waiting on Cotonou’s streets are over. The Zongo Truck Parking brings efficiency, comfort, and modernity to the logistics sector, setting a new standard for driver welfare and operational excellence.