Logistics and territory: a reciprocal interaction serving the urban dynamics of the port city of Lomé.

Abstract

The internationalization of the production process, driven by technological advances, has strengthened the role of port and airport cities in the global logistics chain. As a spatial support for logistics activities, cities provide the land resources necessary for the establishment of logistics facilities. These facilities generate economic externalities by facilitating the storage and movement of goods, but their location has a significant impact on the spatial growth of these cities. This article aims to analyze the impact of logistics facilities on the spatial dynamics of the city of Lomé through a mixed methodological approach combining quantitative and qualitative data. The results reveal that the central and immediate municipalities of the port area, notably Golfe 1 and Golfe 4, account for 43% of logistics facilities, compared to 57% for the remaining 11 municipalities. However, although located on the outskirts, the municipality of Agoè-nyivé 6, which is home to the industrial platform, also attracts several minor logistics facilities that contribute to the spatial sprawl of the city of Lomé. Proximity to major logistics facilities and the road network, as well as land accessibility, are the main criteria for the location of warehouses and stores in Greater Lomé (DAGL).