The Cotonou municipal authorities launched an operation to free public spaces on Monday, September 21, 2026. The operation, which aims to remove abandoned vehicles, wrecks, and irregularly parked garage vehicles from public spaces, began in Agontikon and its surroundings. According to the municipality, 19 vehicles were impounded on the first day of the operation. The initiative is part of the municipality's efforts to restore order to the urban landscape.
The operation was supervised by Arlette Bello Saïzonou, the first deputy mayor of Cotonou. She warned that the operation will continue for as long as necessary to achieve its objectives. The municipality had previously engaged in a phase of information, sensitization, and dialogue with the occupants concerned. The goal is to recover public spaces occupied by wrecks and vehicles used for automobile repair activities.
The operation is part of the "Repair the City" component of the "Cotonou 2026-2033: Change Scale" project. The municipality aims to address the issue of illegal occupation of public spaces, which has become a major concern in the city. The authorities hope that this operation will help to improve the aesthetic appeal of the city and promote a sense of civic responsibility among residents.
The impounded vehicles were removed from the streets to make way for a more organized and efficient use of public spaces. The municipality plans to continue the operation in the coming days to address different areas of concern. Residents have been urged to cooperate with the authorities and respect the laws regulating the use of public spaces.
The "Cotonou 2026-2033: Change Scale" project is a comprehensive initiative aimed at transforming the city into a more modern and sustainable urban center. The project encompasses various aspects of urban development, including infrastructure, transportation, and environmental management. The operation to free public spaces is a key component of this project.
The municipality has urged residents to report any cases of illegal occupation of public spaces to the authorities. The authorities have promised to take action against individuals and businesses that fail to comply with the regulations. The operation is expected to have a positive impact on the city's environment and economy.
The Cotonou municipal authorities have assured residents that the operation will be carried out in a fair and transparent manner. The authorities have also promised to provide support to individuals and businesses affected by the operation. The goal is to create a more livable and sustainable city for all residents.
Key points
- The Cotonou municipal authorities impounded 19 vehicles on the first day of an operation to free public spaces.
- The operation aims to remove abandoned vehicles, wrecks, and irregularly parked garage vehicles from public spaces.
- The initiative is part of the "Cotonou 2026-2033: Change Scale" project, which aims to transform the city into a more modern and sustainable urban center.
