ABIDJAN

• CIABJ
• Latitude: 5.29839
• Longitude: -4.01993
• West Africa
• Port in Côte d’Ivoire

Location: Côte d’Ivoire

Abidjan, located in Côte d'Ivoire, is home to one of the largest and most significant ports in West Africa. The Port of Abidjan serves as a key economic and logistical hub, not only for Côte d'Ivoire but for the landlocked neighboring countries as well. Here's a detailed description and specification of the Port of Abidjan:

General Information:

• Location: Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
• Coordinates: Approximately 5.2610° N latitude, -4.0078° W longitude
• Opening Year: 1951
• Management: Managed by the Autonomous Port of Abidjan (Port Autonome d'Abidjan, PAA)

Infrastructure and Facilities:

Terminals:

• Container Terminal: The port has modern container handling facilities, operated by several global and local operators, including a significant presence of Bolloré Africa Logistics and APM Terminals.
• Bulk Terminals: There are dedicated terminals for handling dry bulk (such as clinker, grain, and fertilizer) and liquid bulk (like oil and petroleum products).
• RO-RO Terminal: Facilities for Roll-on/Roll-off operations to handle vehicles and machinery.
• General Cargo Terminals: Multiple berths available for handling various general cargo.

Berths and Quays:

• Total Berths: Over 30 berths, specialized for different types of cargo.
• Total Length of Quays: Approximately 6 kilometers.

Depth and Draft:

• Maximum Depth: Varies by terminal, but typically around 10.5 to 15 meters at high tide in the main channels.
• Maximum Vessel Draft: Up to 13 meters.

Handling Capacity:

• Container Throughput: The port can handle millions of TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units) annually.
• Bulk Throughput: Several millions of tons of bulk cargo per year.
• Passenger Traffic: The port also caters to passenger services, though this is a comparatively smaller segment.

Equipment:

• Cranes: Multiple gantry cranes, mobile cranes, and ship-to-shore cranes available.
• Straddle Carriers and Reach Stackers: For efficient container handling.
• Storage Facilities: Includes large container yards, warehousing facilities, and storage tanks for liquid bulk.

Connectivity:

• Rail Links: Direct rail connections to major inland cities and regions.
• Road Links: Well-connected via Côte d'Ivoire’s road network to domestic and international destinations.
• Intermodal Facilities: Infrastructure to support efficient transfer between maritime, rail, and road transport.

Services:

• Pilotage and Towing: Mandatory pilotage services for vessel navigation and towing as required.
• Bunkering and Supply: Fuel bunkering services, provision of fresh water, and other supplies.
• Repair and Maintenance: Facilities for vessel repair and maintenance services.

Expansion and Development:

• The Port of Abidjan has undergone significant expansion projects to enhance its capacity, including deepening of channels, extension of quays, and modernization of equipment.
• Future development plans aim to further increase handling capacity and improve efficiency, potentially making it one of the top hubs in Africa.

Economic Impact:

• The port is of critical importance to the Ivorian economy, serving as a major entry and departure point for the country’s import and export activities.
• It plays a significant role in the regional economy, providing logistics support for landlocked countries like Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger.

Security:

• The port adheres to international security standards, including the ISPS (International Ship and Port Facility Security) Code, ensuring the safety and security of vessels, cargo, and personnel.

Abidjan's port is not just a critical infrastructure asset for Côte d'Ivoire but a vital linchpin in the broader West African trade network, fostering economic growth and regional integration.