Key challenge(s)

How can street food vendors operating near the port maintain sustainable livelihoods while ensuring clean, safe food for customers and themselves?

Successful initiative

After observing unsafe working conditions and poor hygiene standards among food vendors along the Cotonou port corridor, authorities launched a comprehensive consultation process. This led to the construction of modern market stalls designed to protect vendors from traffic and harsh weather while providing essential utilities. The initiative demonstrates the Port Autonome de Cotonou’s commitment to social responsibility and environmental stewardship for nearby communities.

Implementation results

The Port Autonome de Cotonou (Bénin) has prioritized social and environmental improvements through infrastructure modernization. In 2024, it unveiled a 3,000-square-meter covered market featuring equipped kitchen stalls, running water, and electricity. Previously, 98 female vendors operated roadside without protection from weather or traffic, unable to cook on-site or store inventory safely. Today, they work in clean, secure conditions while serving port employees and local residents with higher hygiene standards.

The project, costing over 600 million FCFA, involved stakeholder consultations to ensure community needs were met. Benefits include financial stability for vendors through increased customer access, a 20% sales boost, and reduced incidents. Early data collection suggests improved waste management and a more inclusive environment attracting diverse clientele including executives and dockworkers.