Optimizing Intermodal Transport and Hub Location Problem for ECOWAS in the Context of Improving Intra-African Trade

Trade within Africa is at an all-time low, with a lack of optimal intermodal transportation network and high cost business serving as deterrent to trade. This research studies Intra-African ECOWAS using hierarchical spatial aggregation process identify 27 nodes. Distance-based weighted centrality measures employed TOPSIS model ranked node Economic Community West African States (ECOWAS) transport railway, road, waterway networks. The ten highest-ranking nodes identified from the mixed-integer linear program adopted candidate hubs, thus selecting Ibeshe ferry terminal in Lagos Tema Harbour Accra for waterway; Thies, Ibadan, Conakry, Monrovia Thies railway; Ibadan road. We conclude sensitivity analysis discussion management implications ECOWAS. paper demonstrated that limited number transshipment hubs would encourage interregional trade cut point-to-point costs lead economic growth development.