How Cotonou port vendors got safer work spaces and boosted sales

Key challenges

How can street food vendors operating near the port maintain their livelihoods while ensuring safety and hygiene for both customers and themselves?

Initiative highlights

Observing the hazardous working conditions of informal food sellers along the port access roads and recognizing the need for improved food safety standards, the Port Autonome de Cotonou (PAC) launched an extensive consultation process. The outcome was the development of modern, weatherproof vending units equipped with running water and electricity. This initiative reflects the port authority’s commitment to social responsibility and environmental stewardship for neighboring communities.

Success story

The Port Autonome de Cotonou has been actively modernizing its operations and supporting nearby communities through various initiatives. In 2024, the port inaugurated a 3,000m² covered space featuring 98 modern food stalls with kitchen facilities, water access, and electricity. Previously, these vendors operated along the roadside without protection from traffic or weather, unable to cook on-site or store inventory. The new facilities now provide clean, secure working environments that meet higher hygiene standards while serving port workers and local residents.

The project, costing over 600 million FCFA, involved stakeholder consultations. Beyond improving working conditions and financial stability for vendors, the new location has fostered a more inclusive community space attracting diverse customers including senior staff and dockworkers. Early indicators show a 20% increase in sales, with ongoing data collection to assess additional benefits such as reduced incidents and waste.