Benin: €23 Million to Finance Seven Infrastructure Projects at the Port of Cotonou
The Port Autonome de Cotonou (PAC) is pursuing its modernisation projects through an overall investment project estimated at €23 million. In this context, the port authority organised an Early Market Engagement session on 10 November 2026, in collaboration with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). The meeting aimed to present the upcoming projects to companies operating in the construction and civil engineering sector, as well as those specialising in roads and utility networks, while gathering their feedback ahead of the launch of procurement procedures.
Held from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the conference room of the Port Autonome de Cotonou, the meeting brought together several companies, both in person and online. It was chaired by Vincent Biernaux, Director of Internal Audit and Financial Control at PAC, alongside Fatoumata Bouaré, EBRD Vice President for Risk, and Dasha Dougans, EBRD Country Representative.
Seven Infrastructure Projects Under the Overall Investment Project
The overall project presented comprises seven work packages aimed at strengthening the infrastructure and operational capacity of the Port of Cotonou. These include:
- Construction of the new PAC Harbour Master’s Office;
- Rehabilitation of the Single Hiring Office (BEU);
- Construction of warehouses, archives facilities and a PPSE laboratory;
- Construction of a motorcycle parking facility;
- Construction of a fire station;
- Construction of the Akpakpa sports centre;
- Construction of the first phase of the Port Professions Training School.
These infrastructure projects are expected to improve the port’s operating conditions, enhance facility security and support skills development in port-related professions.
€20 Million in EBRD Financing
To support the implementation of this overall project, the EBRD plans to provide the Port Autonome de Cotonou with a senior loan of up to €20 million. This financing is expected to be complemented by an investment grant. The total cost of the overall project is estimated at €23 million.
Beyond the construction and rehabilitation of infrastructure, the programme also includes technical cooperation aimed at strengthening PAC’s capacity in procurement and corporate governance. This cooperation is also intended to promote the development of a more inclusive workforce, incorporating a gender perspective.
Consultation to Better Prepare Upcoming Procurement Contracts
The consultation also aimed to establish preliminary commercial dialogue with specialised national and international companies, particularly in order to:
- Validate the size of the work packages in relation to companies’ capacities;
- Assess the feasibility of project timelines in light of the constraints associated with construction work in port areas;
- Establish realistic and competitive financial and technical thresholds;
- Attract qualified national and international companies.
The Port Autonome de Cotonou nevertheless clarified that this consultation does not constitute any contractual or financial commitment on its part. The meeting concluded with a question-and-answer session, allowing participants to share their contributions and gain a better understanding of the proposed projects.
Towards a More Efficient, Safer and More Sustainable Port
Through this overall project, the Port Autonome de Cotonou aims to improve its operational efficiency, strengthen the security of its facilities and increase its resilience to the challenges associated with its activities.
The overall project also incorporates an environmental dimension, with the construction of greener and more energy-efficient buildings, thereby contributing to the port’s green transition. The good governance component, meanwhile, provides for technical support to improve corporate governance practices and the quality of financial reporting.
Ultimately, these investments are expected to help consolidate the role of the Port of Cotonou as a major trade gateway for Benin and the wider West African sub-region.
