The Togolese port autonome, Lomé, recently welcomed a high-level delegation from the World Bank, led by Mme Marie-Chantal Uwanyiligira, in a bid to explore new partnership opportunities and consolidate its status as a premier hub for logistics in the sub-region.
First Port of Transbordement on Africa’s West Coast
The visit was marked by a meeting with Edem Kokou Tengué, director-general of the port autonome, who presented the facility’s exceptional infrastructure and performances.
The directeur général highlighted the port’s key assets, including the Lomé Container Terminal (LCT), which is a world-class infrastructure capable of accommodating the largest new-generation vessels, as well as specialized installations such as modern quays for mineral, petroleum, and conventionnal traffic.
Strategic Vision for Togo 2040
The port autonome’s strategic vision, Vision Togo 2040, aims to develop the corridor littoral into multiple zones of attraction for logistical and commercial activities.
Key Player in Job Creation
Mme Marie-Chantal Uwanyiligira emphasized the importance of the port’s role in creating durable employment opportunities, as its functioning has a significant impact on the economy and job creation.
« The weight of this port is so immense that its operation will have a direct impact on the economy’s performance and job creation. As an institution, our priority remains to create more jobs, especially productive ones.» — Mme Marie-Chantal Uwanyiligira
The director expressed her deep impression with the rapid progress made by Togo through massive investments, which has elevated the port to a level of competitiveness that some major countries do not possess.
$200 Million Funding for Transport Linkage
The visit culminated in a significant announcement: a World Bank group, via its public and private channels, reaffirmed its commitment to accompany future expansion programs.
During this dynamic, an agreement of $200 million (approximately 120 billion XOF) was validated by the Ministry of Finance and Budget. This colossal fund is specifically dedicated to a major transport urban and logistics project that will directly connect the Autonome Port de Lomé with the key industrial zone in the country, modernizing its infrastructure routes and optimizing its railway network.
