Lomé port marked an important milestone on Friday, September 19, 2025, with the official completion of a €7.5 million dredging project at the Lomé Container Terminal. The investment, equivalent to nearly 4.9 billion CFA francs, represents a strategic step in strengthening the port’s role as a regional hub for trade and logistics. The ceremony at the terminal headquarters drew top management, Rear Admiral Adegnon of the Autonomous Port of Lomé, customs officials, ministry representatives, and other key port stakeholders.
The completion of this dredging work has far-reaching implications. By deepening the access channels and berthing areas, the port is now better equipped to handle larger vessels with improved efficiency. This upgrade not only enhances the competitiveness of Lomé port in West Africa but also creates stronger opportunities for trade-driven growth in the region. The stakeholders present at the ceremony recognized that such infrastructure projects are crucial for maintaining the port’s position as a strategic maritime gateway.
For years, Lomé port has been central to regional commerce, connecting multiple countries to international markets. However, growing global trade and increased shipping demands have placed greater pressure on existing infrastructure. The dredging project addresses these pressures directly by expanding capacity, ensuring smoother vessel traffic, and reducing congestion. Therefore, it is both a technical improvement and an economic catalyst.
The ceremony reflected a spirit of pride and determination. Leaders of the handling company emphasized that this project shows the port’s commitment to continuous modernization. They also highlighted the collaboration between the port authority, customs, and relevant ministries as a model for future projects. Rear Admiral Adegnon reinforced this point, stressing that cooperation between all stakeholders remains vital to sustaining progress.
Beyond infrastructure, the project has clear economic and social benefits. It will facilitate faster cargo movement, improve operational efficiency, and attract more international shipping lines. These improvements will, in turn, create jobs and strengthen revenue streams for the country. The ripple effects extend to businesses across Togo and neighboring countries that rely on Lomé port for imports and exports.
Officials noted that the timing of the dredging completion is particularly significant. Global trade routes are shifting, and competition among African ports is intensifying. Lomé port’s ability to adapt quickly positions it as a preferred choice for carriers seeking efficiency and reliability. This project demonstrates foresight, ensuring the port remains relevant in a rapidly evolving maritime landscape.
Stakeholders also used the occasion to reflect on the importance of sustainability in port operations. Maintaining dredged areas requires ongoing monitoring, technical expertise, and investment. The handling company committed to keeping standards high, while ministry representatives pledged support for policies that encourage further modernization. This shared responsibility underscores a vision of long-term resilience.
For many present, the celebration was not only about a completed project but also about renewed confidence. The €7.5 million investment highlights the value placed on Lomé port as a pillar of economic growth. It also demonstrates that with collaboration, careful planning, and accountability, infrastructure projects can deliver timely results that serve both businesses and communities.
The dredging completion marks the beginning of a new chapter for Lomé port. With deeper waters, improved access, and stronger capacity, it stands ready to welcome more vessels and more opportunities. The event left stakeholders optimistic that the port will continue to thrive as a leading maritime hub in West Africa. For Togo, this achievement represents progress, resilience, and a future where trade and connectivity remain engines of growth.
