Smart Port in Motion: Douala-Bonabéri bets on 5G to transform its operations

The Port Authority of Douala (PAD) has taken a decisive step in its digital transformation strategy. On Monday, November 17, 2025, in the PAD headquarters’ conference room in Bonanjo, Director General Cyrus NGO’O and INNOVENDI CEO Joël MONEFONG signed an agreement that officially launches the deployment of a next-generation 4G/5G network and Smart Port solutions at the Port of Douala-Bonabéri.

An ambitious initiative that positions Cameroon’s main port on an unprecedented technological trajectory in Central Africa.

A Digital Infrastructure Designed for the Ports of the Future

The partnership, fully financed by INNOVENDI and/or its partners, includes the installation of a hybrid 4G/5G architecture covering all port facilities, along with the integration of IoT systems, edge cloud services, advanced cybersecurity tools, and intelligent interfaces for operational management.

In practical terms, this transformation will enable the automation of key tasks, real-time cargo tracking, optimized traffic management, and a significant improvement in operational safety.

In return for the rights and access granted by the PAD, INNOVENDI will pay an entry fee, a fixed royalty, a variable royalty, and other contributions defined by port regulations—an arrangement described as a “win-win” by both parties.

A Public-Private Partnership Born from a Spontaneous Proposal

Originating from a spontaneous proposal reviewed by an ad hoc committee, this public-private partnership aligns fully with the PAD’s modernization ambitions: upgrading Cameroon’s primary port, improving operational performance, and reducing cargo dwell times—often a major concern for shippers and logistics operators.

This technological leap will also enhance Douala-Bonabéri’s competitiveness amid the growing rivalry among ports in the Gulf of Guinea.

Significant Economic and Social Impacts Expected

Beyond technological innovation, the project is poised to generate notable social and economic benefits. It includes the creation of direct and indirect jobs, the involvement of local SMEs, the training of young talents, and the transfer of technology to strengthen both the port’s capabilities and the local maritime ecosystem.

For logistics players, these changes herald a port that is more fluid, secure, and better connected. In the long run, the modernization could reposition Douala as a key technological and logistics hub in Central Africa.

A Port Steadily Advancing Toward International Standards

With the signing of this agreement, the Port Authority of Douala reaffirms its ambition to join the select group of Smart Ports worldwide. The management has made its objectives clear: to make Douala-Bonabéri not only Cameroon’s economic gateway but also a regional benchmark in port innovation.

The PAD’s digital revolution is underway, and this 5G shift marks one of the most decisive milestones in its modernization journey.

All cargo destined for Cameroon requires a mandatory BESC certificate. This document must be issued before the vessel departs from the port of loading. Shipments arriving without a valid BESC risk delays, penalties, or refusal by Cameroonian customs.