The Banque européenne pour la reconstruction et le développement (BERD) is considering a loan of 20 million euros for the Port autonome de Cotonou in Bénin. This proposed financing package is equivalent to approximately 13.12 billion FCFA. Officials at the development bank are currently evaluating the potential investment as part of efforts to support the infrastructure of the facility. The Port autonome de Cotonou serves as a primary maritime gateway for the national economy. Decisions regarding the final approval of these funds remain pending as the bank continues its assessment of the project requirements. The EBRD is considering a loan of 20 million euros (approximately 13.12 billion FCFA) for the Port of Cotonou to bolster its capacity and operational efficiency.
Infrastructure Development Project Scope
Infrastructure project managers estimate the total cost of the development program at 23 million euros, which converts to approximately 15.09 billion FCFA. The total cost of the infrastructure program is estimated at 23 million euros (approximately 15.09 billion FCFA). These funds are designated for specific facility upgrades intended to streamline maritime operations and labor management at the site.
Construction plans include the development of a harbor master’s office and a dedicated recruitment center. The project includes building a harbor master's office, a recruitment center, a vocational training center for dockers, and parking areas for trucks. The scope of work also features a vocational training center for dockers to improve specialized skills among the local workforce. Additionally, the project provides for the creation of parking areas for trucks to manage cargo vehicle traffic flow within the port area. By integrating these specific facilities, the Port autonome de Cotonou aims to modernize its internal logistical framework and enhance the safety and organization of the port environment.
The Banque européenne pour la reconstruction et le développement (EBRD) will host a market consultation meeting with representatives from the Port autonome de Cotonou on 10 November 2026. A market consultation meeting between the EBRD and the Port of Cotonou is scheduled for November 10, 2026. This session aims to review project specifications and requirements before the final funding determination. Stakeholders intend to use this meeting to ensure that the proposed infrastructure aligns with the technical and operational needs of the port facility.
The board of the EBRD is expected to make a decision on the loan approval on 18 November 2026. This vote will determine whether the bank provides the requested financial support for the infrastructure program. The bank’s governing body will evaluate the findings from the consultation meeting alongside the broader project assessments to reach a final determination regarding the 20 million euro allocation. Following the board’s vote, the Port autonome de Cotonou will be notified of the official status of the financing request, which remains a key component of the current development strategy for the maritime facility.
