Cotonou’s Zongo truck park transforms logistics and driver experience

On Friday, May 22, 2026, Benin’s transport and port logistics landscape entered a new era with the grand opening of the Zongo Truck Park. Developed by the Autonomous Port of Cotonou (PAC), this cutting-edge facility redefines efficiency for heavy-duty trucks and streamlines regional freight flows.

A 700-space gateway to smoother port operations

The Zongo Truck Park, strategically located at the edge of the port zone, now serves as the primary holding area for commercial fleets heading to and from Benin’s economic hub. Replacing the chaotic parking along Boulevard de la Marina, this 13-hectare terminal can accommodate up to 700 trucks, providing critical relief to the daily congestion that once plagued drivers transporting goods for Benin and neighboring nations like Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali.

Designed with wide maneuvering lanes and strategically placed roundabouts, the facility ensures smooth vehicle movement, drastically cutting the risk of collisions and easing the stress of navigating large trucks through tight urban spaces.

Smart tech drives seamless truck management

The park’s digital backbone sets it apart, integrating real-time tracking with the National Single Window for External Trade (GUCE). This smart ecosystem empowers logistics firms and drivers to:

• Secure parking slots in advance via an online booking system, improving trip planning.
• Pay parking fees securely through digital platforms, eliminating long queues at manual counters.
• Monitor vehicle movements live with AI-powered surveillance and automated guidance, ensuring transparency and safety.

A home away from home for long-haul drivers

The “Rangazongo” initiative transforms the park into more than just a transit zone—it becomes a sanctuary for drivers. Recognizing the toll of cross-border journeys, PAC has incorporated essential amenities to restore energy and focus:

• Modern restrooms and hot showers for personal hygiene.
• Comfortable rest areas and relaxation zones to unwind between trips.
• On-site dining options for quick, nutritious meals.
• 24/7 security with controlled access and high-performance lighting.

As one port official noted, “This isn’t just a parking lot—it’s a place where drivers can recharge before safely resuming their routes.”

Cotonou’s logistics hub gets a major upgrade

With an investment of nearly 25 billion CFA francs, the Zongo Truck Park is a cornerstone of Benin’s broader port modernization strategy. By centralizing truck storage and access, the facility accelerates cargo handling, reduces bottlenecks, and solidifies Cotonou’s role as the leading logistics gateway in West Africa.

For hauliers, the days of endless waiting on Cotonou’s congested streets are over. What emerges today is a future defined by speed, convenience, and innovation—where every truck move is optimized, and every driver is respected.