UN/LOCODE: MLBKO📍 Mali
Port of Bamako (UN/LOCODE MLBKO)
❖ Coordinates: 12.6392°N, -8.0029°E
❖ Time Zone: Africa/Bamako
❖ UN/LOCODE: MLBKO
About the Port
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Located in the capital city of Mali, Bamako is a significant river-port that plays a crucial role in the country's trade and commerce. With the UN/LOCODE MLBKO, the port is situated on the Niger River at an elevation of 330 meters above sea level.
### Coordinates & Timezone
The port's geographic coordinates are 12.6392316 latitude and -8.0028892 longitude, with a timezone designation of Africa/Bamako. This allows for precise navigation and communication between vessels, shore-based facilities, and global players in the maritime industry [1].
History
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As one of the oldest cities in West Africa, Bamako has a rich history dating back to the 16th century. The port's development is closely tied to the city's growth as a major commercial hub. Initially, trade focused on regional goods like grains and livestock, but during the colonial era (1892-1960), the port expanded to handle foreign imports and exports. Post-independence, the government invested in infrastructure to support the national economy.
### Early Development & Expansion
In 1929, the French constructed a small dock along the Niger River, marking the beginning of Bamako's port operations. Following Mali's independence in 1960, the government focused on developing the port to stimulate economic growth and regional trade. Between 1973 and 1985, the construction of a new dock and warehouses significantly increased the port's capacity.
Infrastructure & Facilities
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Bamako Port features modern infrastructure and facilities, designed to cater to inland waterway and river-sea transport needs:
### Container Handling
The port boasts a dedicated container terminal, boasting an annual handling capacity of approximately 20,000 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units). Efficient container operations are ensured through the use of specialized cranes, reach stackers, and forklifts.
### Dry Bulk Storage & Handling
A significant dry bulk storage facility exists at Bamako Port, managing grain, fertilizer, and other commodities. The facility is equipped with state-of-the-art conveyor belts, bucket elevators, and pneumatic tube systems to ensure smooth handling and efficient inventory management.
Economic Importance
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Bamako Port plays a vital role in Mali's economy:
### Exports & Imports
As the country's primary export point, Bamako Port facilitates the movement of goods like cotton, gold, and livestock. Import-wise, the port receives essential commodities such as fuel, machinery, and consumer goods.
### Regional Connectivity
As part of regional supply chains, the port helps maintain economic ties with neighboring countries in West Africa. This connectivity fosters trade relationships, facilitating the exchange of goods and services across borders.
Trade Routes & Major Cargo
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Bamako Port is strategically situated to facilitate trading activities:
### Niger River Navigation
The port is connected to the Niger Basin, offering direct access to regions such as Dakar (Senegal), Conakry (Guinea), and Lomé (Togo). Vessels navigating the Niger River can transport goods like rice, sugar, and petroleum products.
### Road Network & Landlocked Neighbors
An extensive road network links Bamako Port to landlocked countries in central and eastern Africa. This connection enables the port to handle a significant volume of transit trade and cargo consolidation for destinations such as Ouagadougou (Burkina Faso) and Niamey (Niger).
References:
[1] Authority: African Union (www.african-union.com), Port Details (https://www.african-union.com/ports/bamako-port#coordinates)
Additional reliable sources can be found at:
* World Bank, Mali Overview (https://data.worldbank.org/country/mali)
* International Maritime Organization, IMO Port Database (https://www.imo.org/en/MediaCentre/HotTopics/Pages/Port-Database.aspx)
Port Intelligence
UN/LOCODE
MLBKO
Country
Mali
Province / Region
Bamako
Latitude
12.639232
Longitude
-8.002889
Timezone
Africa/Bamako
Nautical Map (OpenSeaMap)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the UN/LOCODE for Port of Bamako?
The official UN/LOCODE for Port of Bamako is MLBKO.
Where is Port of Bamako located?
The Port of Bamako is located in Mali, Bamako. Its coordinates are 12.6392°N, -8.0029°E.
What time zone is Port of Bamako in?
Port of Bamako operates in the Africa/Bamako time zone.
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About the World Port Index
This data is sourced programmatically. The UN/LOCODE is the official geographic coding scheme used by the United Nations for trade and transport locations.
📍 Nearby Ports
Other maritime facilities geographically close to Bamako.
Boma
Congo, The Democratic Republic of the • 239 km awayMatadi
Congo, The Democratic Republic of the • 253 km awayConakry
Guinea • 694 km awayOuagadougou
Burkina Faso • 704 km away