Bénin Terminal, a subsidiary of Africa Global Logistics, is boosting the Port of Cotonou’s competitiveness by installing Spreader Control Unit technology on its quay cranes. This investment aims to enhance productivity and modernize the port infrastructure, reinforcing its position as a major regional hub in West Africa.
Spreader Control Unit Technology : Enhancing efficiency at Bénin Terminal
The Spreader Control Unit (S.C.U) technology is pivotal for optimizing operations at Bénin Terminal. By equipping its four quay cranes with this advanced system, Bénin Terminal is committed to improving operational efficiency. This 535,000 USD investment underscores the company’s dedication to staying competitive. The Spreader Control Unit technology enables smoother container movements and allows for remote diagnostics of malfunctions, which helps reduce downtime and streamline maintenance.
Strategic investment to increase productivity
The adoption of this technology represents a strategic move rather than just a technological upgrade. The Port of Cotonou is now among the few in West Africa to implement Spreader Control Unit technology, positioning Bénin Terminal as a leader in advanced port infrastructure in the region. This upgrade is part of a broader terminal modernization program designed to accelerate processes and meet the increasing demands of business partners.
As a result of this investment, cargo handling operations will see improved efficiency, with reduced handling times and increased container processing capacity.
Partnering with a global leader : Bromma
To maximize the benefits of this investment, Bénin Terminal has teamed up with Bromma, a global expert in crane spreader manufacturing. The purchase of two new spreaders equipped with Spreader Control Unit technologyhighlights the significance of this partnership. Bromma’s reputation for robust and high-performance equipment ensures that Bénin Terminal remains at the forefront of port technology.
Additionally, Bromma has sent experts, including engineer Torbjorn Fridlund, to train the local teams. This demonstrates Bénin Terminal’s commitment not only to adopting cutting-edge technologies but also to ensuring that its staff is fully equipped to utilize them.
Ongoing modernization : Long-term commitment
The introduction of Spreader Control Unit technology is part of a larger investment plan by Bénin Terminal. Since 2013, the company has invested over 230 million USD to modernize the container terminal at the Port of Cotonou. This strategy has established Bénin Terminal as a regional hub for landlocked countries like Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso.
The success of this modernization is evident not just in improved infrastructure but also in increased trade flows. By optimizing its operations, Bénin Terminal plays a crucial role in the region’s economic development, facilitating bothexport and import activities.
The benefits of Bénin Terminal’s performance improvements extend beyond infrastructure. Adopting innovative technologies creates both direct and indirect jobs. Currently, Bénin Terminal employs 419 people and generates around a thousand indirect jobs through subcontracting, a number that could rise with further expansion.
The company also prioritizes sustainable development and supports various social initiatives. Bénin Terminal collaborates with NGOs to promote education for youth affected by HIV and to raise environmental awareness among local communities. This comprehensive approach underscores Bénin Terminal’s commitment to not only economic but also social and environmental development.
