A high-powered delegation from the World Bank, led by Mrs. Marie-Chantal Uwanyiligira, Regional Director for Togo, Côte d’Ivoire, Benin, and Guinea, made a landmark field visit to the Autonomous Port of Lomé (PAL) on Thursday. The purpose? To assess firsthand the port’s expanding role and explore fresh avenues for collaboration to cement its position as West Africa’s premier logistics gateway.

West Africa’s top transshipment port under scrutiny

Warmly greeted by the PAL’s Managing Director, Mr. Edem Kokou Tengué, the delegation toured the port’s cutting-edge facilities and reviewed its stellar operational performance. The discussions highlighted several key strengths that define Togo’s competitive edge.

Infrastructure that sets new benchmarks

The Lomé Container Terminal (LCT) stands out as a world-class facility, uniquely equipped to accommodate the latest mega-vessels. The port also boasts state-of-the-art specialized terminals, including dedicated mineral, oil, and conventional docks. These assets align perfectly with the government’s Vision Togo 2040, which outlines ambitious plans to develop the coastal corridor into a multi-zone logistics and trade hub.

Driving sustainable job creation

Mrs. Uwanyiligira emphasized the Port of Lomé’s outsized contribution to Togo’s GDP and job market, making it a strategic priority for the World Bank. She noted that the port’s efficiency directly influences economic output and employment generation—both critical factors in the institution’s mission to foster productive, long-term jobs.

« The port’s influence is far-reaching. Its operational performance doesn’t just boost the economy—it creates opportunities for sustainable employment. For an institution like ours, the focus remains on driving impactful, lasting job growth. » — Mrs. Marie-Chantal Uwanyiligira

The delegation praised the remarkable progress Togo has achieved through substantial investments, propelling the port to a level of competitiveness few nations can match.

A $200 million commitment to modernize logistics connectivity

This strategic visit culminated in a significant announcement: the World Bank Group—having previously supported the port’s expansion—reaffirmed its commitment to future large-scale initiatives. A landmark financing agreement of $200 million (approximately 120 billion FCFA) was formalized with the Ministry of Finance and Budget, earmarked for a transformative urban and logistics transport project.

The funds will enable direct integration of the Autonomous Port of Lomé with the country’s primary industrial zone. Upgrades to road infrastructure and enhancements to the railway network will streamline cargo movement, reduce transit times, and boost overall trade efficiency.