[en] Since 2006, the Millennium Challenge Account program subsidizes a project to improve the performance of the
Port of Cotonou, through modernization of infrastructure and management systems, and strengthening institutional reforms. But the project mainly concerns the port, not the development of its hinterland. However, no port can develop without its links with its hinterland. That’s why we analyse the issues relating to the hinterland transport network. Both rail and road transportation networks will be examined. We also investigate inland terminals in order to build up intermodal transportation which is almost non-operational. Thus, the objective of this paper is to determine the optimal number and locations of the terminals so that the total costs of the distribution network are minimized.
