Owendo container terminal welcomees new bridge linking wharf and container terminal
On February 15, 2024, Owendo Container Terminal recently commissioned a new bridge marking yet another successful infrastructural project. This critical infrastructure project, costing over 2 billion CFA francs, signifies Owendo Container Terminal’s (OCT) commitment to supporting Gabon’s port modernization efforts while setting a new standard for sustainable port development in Gabon.
The bridge directly connects the quay located in the NOIP zone to the terminal situated within the Gabon Port Management (GPM) zone. This eliminates previous inefficiencies and streamlines container movement within the port.
This investment which is part of OCT’s stated desire to support the Gabonese State in the development and modernization of port infrastructure, follows the agreement signed on August 11, 2022 with the Port Authority, the Office of Ports and Rades of Gabon (OPRAG) and the Gabon Port Management Company (GPM) with a view to guaranteeing the safety of goods on the one hand, and to solve the problems of traffic flow within the port of Owendo on the other hand.
The establishment of a single customs office brings about several significant advantages. Enhanced security measures are a prominent benefit, as goods undergo stricter control, minimizing potential security risks. The bridge’s contribution to smoother traffic flow within the port is noteworthy, alleviating congestion and facilitating faster, more efficient movement of containers.
Additionally, the centralized customs control results in simplified procedures for customs brokers, streamlining their processes. Importantly, this centralized approach translates to faster deliveries, benefitting importers, exporters, and ocean carriers by ensuring quicker container availability and delivery, ultimately enhancing overall operational efficiency across the logistics chain.
With its focus on efficiency, security, and environmental responsibility, this project serves as a model for the future of the country’s port infrastructure. Labelled Green Terminal by Bureau Veritas, OCT hopes to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by more than 300 tons per year by simplifying mobility, operations, and procedures.
«his new bridge between the historic facilities and the latest infrastructure of the container terminal is part of OCT's desire to guarantee the highest standards to the various users and shipowner customers. It leads to numerous operational improvements in terms of the safety of goods, the fluidity of traffic at the port, simplification of administrative procedures, while reducing the impact of the activity on the environment. This achievement is a new concrete expression of our active contribution to the growth and economic development of Gabon.» said Laurent Goutard, Managing Director of Owendo Container Terminal.
The new bridge marks a significant step forward in modernizing and improving the Owendo Container Terminal, while setting a new standard for sustainable port development in Gabon. With its focus on efficiency, security, and environmental responsibility, this project serves as a model for the future of the country’s port infrastructure.
About Owendo Container Terminal
Owendo Container Terminal (OCT), a subsidiary of Africa Global Logistics Gabon, is the operator of the container terminal at the port of Owendo in Gabon. A major player in the country’s supply chain, OCT employs nearly 300 Gabonese and is developing a subcontracting policy that generates nearly a thousand indirect jobs. Each year, OCT also carries out actions to support local populations in partnership with NGOs in many areas related in particular to education and the environment.
