Cotonou’s zongo parking transforms truck logistics with 700 spaces

The dawn of Friday, May 22, 2026 marked a historic milestone for road transport and port traffic management in Bénin. The Port Autonome de Cotonou (PAC) inaugurated the Parking Zongo, a cutting-edge facility designed to revolutionize truck logistics and driver conditions at West Africa’s busiest port.

The end of chaotic truck parking near Marina Boulevard

Nestled at the heart of the port’s operational zone, the new Parking Zongo now stands as the primary hub for heavy-duty trucks and cross-border logistics. Gone are the days of haphazard parking along the Marina Boulevard. This 13-hectare terminal, with a capacity of 700 spaces, was engineered to handle the relentless flow of trucks supplying Bénin’s economic engine and neighboring landlocked nations like Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali.

The facility features expansive maneuvering areas and strategically designed roundabouts, ensuring seamless vehicle movement. This infrastructure drastically reduces collision risks and eliminates the stress of navigating massive trucks through congested streets.

Smart logistics powered by digital innovation

The Parking Zongo is not just a parking lot—it’s a smart logistics hub. Fully integrated with the Guichet Unique du Commerce Extérieur (GUCE), the terminal leverages advanced technology to streamline operations:

• Online reservations: Transport companies can book spots in advance, optimizing route planning and reducing idle time.
• Digital payments: Parking fees are settled via secure online platforms, eliminating queues at physical cashiers.
• Real-time tracking: A state-of-the-art surveillance system and automated guidance tools provide live updates on vehicle entry and exit, enhancing security and efficiency.

A driver-centric haven: Rangazongo’s promise of comfort

The PAC didn’t overlook the human element. The Rangazongo project—a dedicated driver welfare zone—transforms the parking area into a restful retreat for long-haul truckers. Recognizing the grueling demands of interstate journeys, the port authority introduced:

• Modern restrooms and shower facilities
• Comfortable relaxation zones
• Hygienic dining areas

Security is paramount, with round-the-clock surveillance, controlled access points, and high-performance lighting ensuring the safety of both drivers and cargo.

Cotonou’s port steps into a new era of efficiency

With a budget of nearly 25 billion FCFA, the Parking Zongo is a cornerstone of Bénin’s broader port modernization initiative. By centralizing truck traffic at a single, state-of-the-art entry point, the terminal slashes delays, boosts operational speed, and cements Cotonou’s reputation as West Africa’s premier logistics gateway.

For transporters, this marks the end of endless waits on Cotonou’s congested streets. The future is here: efficient, comfortable, and built for speed.