Douala Port advances digital overhaul to boost cargo efficiency, revenue management
The Port Authority of Douala (PAD) has advanced the rollout of its new Port Information System, SIP, as part of efforts to improve cargo handling, strengthen revenue management and modernize operations at the Port of Douala-Bonabéri. The development was reviewed during a working session chaired by PAD Director General, Cyrus Ngo’o.
The project, launched on November 14, 2024, is scheduled for completion on October 14, 2026. It will replace the port’s existing CARGO software and serve as the central platform for managing key port operations. According to PAD, the new system is designed in line with international standards and aims to digitalize major port management processes.
The authority said the platform has undergone two weeks of live testing since July 3, 2026. It has been progressively deployed to several operational units, including the Régie du Dragage et des Remorquages, the Directorate of Operations, the Directorate of Harbour Master's Affairs and the Finance Directorate. Strategic partners such as stevedores and shipping agents have also been integrated into the rollout.
PAD reported that the system has already processed 53 vessel calls, 26 cargo manifests and 26 invoices. Several services provided to vessels have also been handled through the platform during the testing phase.
The deployment comes as the Port of Douala-Bonabéri continues efforts to modernize its infrastructure and services. The port remains Cameroon’s main maritime gateway and serves transit traffic destined for landlocked countries in the Central African sub-region, notably Chad and the Central African Republic. According to the United States International Trade Administration, the Port of Douala handled nearly 12.2 million metric tons of cargo in 2024 and accounted for more than 70% of the country’s imports. Container traffic reached approximately 380,000 TEUs during the year.
Gateway port strengthens digital operations
According to PAD, the new SIP incorporates a range of digital services covering vessel call management, cargo management, invoicing and revenue collection, electronic payment of port charges, access control, truck appointment scheduling and booking services. PAD said the platform is intended to provide the port community with a single portal for accessing services and conducting transactions.
During the meeting, Cyrus Ngo’o called for greater involvement from users of the system. He also instructed teams to strengthen training programs and pursue certification for designated business-process focal points. The Director General further urged all port structures to adopt the platform to ensure its full integration into daily operations, according to information published by PAD.
Transport sector statistics published by Cameroon’s Ministry of Transport show that the Port of Douala recorded average cargo volumes of 11,865 tons per vessel in 2024. The same data show continued efforts to improve operational performance, including container dwell times and berth utilization.
PAD said the SIP project is expected to support faster service delivery, improved coordination among port stakeholders and enhanced monitoring of transactions through digital processes. The authority added that the platform forms part of its broader strategy to improve operational performance, facilitate cargo movement and secure port revenues.
With the operational testing phase underway, PAD plans to extend the use of the system across all port structures ahead of the project's scheduled completion in October 2026. The authority said the objective is to establish a more connected and efficient port environment capable of supporting the growing needs of the port community.
