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Kpémé Phosphate Loading Wharf
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The Kpémé Phosphate Loading Wharf is one of Togo's most critical industrial facilities, serving as the central export hub for phosphate, the country's primary export commodity. Located on the Atlantic coast between the capital Lomé and the town of Aného, the facility was commissioned in the early 1960s to load phosphate mined from Hahotoé and Kpogamé onto deep-sea vessels. Because the coastal waters are shallow, the wharf extends over a kilometer into the sea to reach ships with deep drafts. The facility is operated by the Société Nouvelle des Phosphates du Togo (SNPT). On-site processing involves washing and drying the ore before it is transported via conveyor belts directly into the holds of cargo ships. Economically, this site is of existential importance to Togo, as export revenues fund a significant portion of the national budget. The wharf is a prominent landmark in the region, characterized by its massive steel structure and the industrial activity associated with phosphate shipping.
- Location: Togo
- Nearby: Aného (10 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Aug, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 26 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 28 |
| Rain mm | 15 | 33 | 86 | 118 | 171 | 181 | 111 | 57 | 132 | 140 | 40 | 16 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Kpémé phosphate loading wharf is a specialized port facility for the export of phosphates, Togo's primary mining product. The approximately 1.5-kilometer-long pier extends far into the Atlantic, enabling the transshipment of large volumes for the world market.
Visiting
The wharf is an industrial high-security area and not accessible to the public. From the nearby beaches or the coastal road, however, you can admire the long conveyor belts and the ships in the port.
Where to view it
A good viewpoint is Kpémé beach, from where you can see the entire pier with its loading cranes. The raised coastal road south of the wharf also has an excellent panorama.
Local products
No products are sold directly at the port, but in the nearby town of Kpémé there are small shops with handicrafts and local snacks. Typical for the region are dried fish and cassava chips.
Active season
Loading operations run year-round, but the highest export activity is during the dry season from November to April. During this time, the Atlantic also has calmer conditions, making shipping easier.
Nearby
A visit to the wharf can be combined with a beach day at Kpémé or an excursion to nearby Lake Togo. The city of Lomé to the north is also easily reachable for a combined trip.
Geography
Facts
- Commissioned: 1961
- Wharf length: over 1,200 meters into the sea
- Operated by: SNPT (state-owned enterprise)
- Central point for Togo's global phosphate exports
- Located in the Maritime Region
- Connected to the mines by a dedicated industrial railway
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town Kpémé Phosphate Loading Wharf (1)
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Frequently asked questions
What is the Kpémé phosphate wharf?
An important port for the export of phosphates from Togo.
Can the wharf be visited by tourists?
No, it is a strictly secured industrial area.
Why is it important for Togo?
It is a main pillar of the national economy.
Where is Kpémé located?
On the coast, east of Lomé.
Is there a visitor center?
No, there are no public facilities there.
Kpémé Phosphate Loading Wharf: where is it located?
Kpémé Phosphate Loading Wharf is located in Togo.
Kpémé Phosphate Loading Wharf: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Aug, Dec.
Kpémé Phosphate Loading Wharf: why is it worth visiting?
The Kpémé Phosphate Loading Wharf is one of Togo's most critical industrial facilities, serving as the central export hub for phosphate, the country's primary export commodity.
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