The Cotonou city project and Autonomous Port joint initiative has been awarded the 2026 AIVP Antoine Rufenacht Special Jury Prize in Dunkerque, France, on November 5, 2026. This international distinction recognizes an innovative partnership that brings together logistics, neighborhood life, and cultural identity. The prize acknowledges the collaborative effort between the City of Cotonou and the Autonomous Port, highlighting their unique approach to urban development.
The joint project, titled "Connecting Logistics, Neighborhood Life, and Cultural Identity between Cotonou City and Port," was one of four finalists in the competition, alongside Los Angeles, Vigo, and Palma de Majorque. Cotonou's Mayor and Bart Van Eenoo, Director-General of the Autonomous Port of Cotonou, presented their case to the Grand Jury on November 3. The award symbolizes the city's and port's collaborative effort, united under the "I Love Cotonou" banner.
This recognition is a testament to Cotonou's vision, where the port and city work together in harmony. The city's authorities believe that the port is vital to the city's life and that the city must provide the port with room to grow without negatively impacting the neighborhoods. This prize is a milestone in Cotonou's development project, "Cotonou 2026-2033: Changing Scale," which aims to transform the city.
The AIVP Antoine Rufenacht Prize is the only international distinction that focuses on the relationship between cities and their ports. The award acknowledges the efforts of Cotonou and its Autonomous Port to create a cohesive and sustainable urban environment. The city's and port's partnership is seen as a model for other cities and ports to follow.
The Autonomous Port of Cotonou plays a significant role in Benin's economy, and its collaboration with the city is crucial for the country's growth. The port's Director-General, Bart Van Eenoo, has been instrumental in promoting the partnership between the city and the port. The prize is a recognition of the team's efforts to create a better future for Cotonou.
The Mayor of Cotonou expressed gratitude to the teams of the Port and the City Hall, as well as the AIVP and the Jury members. This award is seen as a stepping stone for Cotonou's future development, and the city aims to continue working towards its goals. The city's project has the potential to transform the urban landscape and improve the lives of its citizens.
The 2026 AIVP Antoine Rufenacht Special Jury Prize is a significant achievement for Cotonou and its Autonomous Port. The award recognizes the city's innovative approach to urban development and its commitment to creating a sustainable and cohesive environment. This recognition will likely have a positive impact on Cotonou's economic and social development.
Key points
- Cotonou and its Autonomous Port have received the 2026 AIVP Antoine Rufenacht Special Jury Prize for their innovative partnership.
- The prize recognizes the city's and port's collaborative effort to connect logistics, neighborhood life, and cultural identity.
- The award is a milestone in Cotonou's development project, "Cotonou 2026-2033: Changing Scale."
