Ouagadougou:The 5th edition of the International Symposium on Transport and Logistics in Africa, known as TRANSLOG AFRICA 2026, is currently taking place from October 20 to 22, 2026. Organized by the Burkinabe Shippers Council (CBC), the symposium gathers over 150 experts from 15 African and European countries to explore homegrown solutions to enhance the transport of goods.
According to Burkina Information Agency, discussions at the event are focusing on various critical topics, including securing transport flows, digitalization, corridor performance, infrastructure financing, and the role of logistics in the continent's industrialization. Dr. Ousmane Bougouma, representing President of Faso, Captain Ibrahim Traore, emphasized the goal of developing realistic responses that can lead to concrete actions.
Dr. Bougouma highlighted the importance of not only roads, ports, and railways but also investment in data, innovation, and cooperation. He argued that Africa requires corridors that transform the continent and supply chains that boost economic sovereignty. He expressed hope that the symposium will produce tangible proposals, solid partnerships, and lasting commitments for Africa's logistics future.
Denise Bado/Bouda, CEO of the CBC and chair of the organizing committee, outlined that the symposium will feature an introductory presentation and four thematic panels. These will cover resilience and digital transformation, regional integration and corridor performance, industrial development and infrastructure financing, and the sustainability of port and logistics systems. She urged participants to engage in constructive discussions, aimed at practical solutions tailored to African realities.
The Port Authority of Douala, serving as the official sponsor of this edition, is represented by its Director General, Cyrus Ngo'o. He stressed the importance of modernizing infrastructure, digitalizing procedures, developing skills, promoting sustainable practices, and improving service quality as part of strengthening relations with inland countries, especially those in the Sahel.
The symposium, themed "Resilience and security of supply chains in a rapidly changing global environment," includes participants from countries such as Benin, Belgium, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Cameroon, Guinea, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Congo-Brazzaville, Nigeria, Senegal, Chad, Togo, Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso.