Second phase of Tema Port expansion dubbed “new era in Ghana’s maritime industry”
In a historic moment for Ghana’s maritime landscape, the second phase of the Tema Port Expansion Project was officially launched last week by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.
The initiative, a crucial component of the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority’s (GPHA) master plan, introduces a fleet of 15 cutting-edge gantry cranes at Meridian Port Services (MPS) container terminal and significant civil works development, reinforcing the port’s role as a paramount hub for West Africa. The terminal is operated by MPS, a joint venture between Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (30%), APM Terminals (35%) and Africa Global Logistics (35%).
The second phase of Tema Port Expansion Project encompasses the paving of an expansive 270,000-square-metre area and expanding the terminal’s footprint from 100 hectares to an impressive 127 hectares. The phased delivery of the first section, comprising 50,000 square-metre area, is slated for July 2024, with the entire project anticipated to reach completion by September 2025.
The acquisition of 15 state-of-the-art gantry cranes signifies a substantial boost to Tema Port’s cargo handling capacity, aligning it with global trade demands. With a total of 12 quay cranes (STS) and 41 yard cranes (RTG), Tema Port is one of Sub-Saharan Africa’s most efficient ports, garnering international acclaim from leading global shipping lines.
The expanded port boasts a 1.4 km quay with four deep berths, equipped with sophisticated container handling gantry cranes and Terminal Operating Systems. It can accommodate some of the world’s largest cargo ships, carrying up to 18,000 containers. Plans have also been confirmed for a crucial road link from the motorway to the Tema Port, with construction set to commence in the first quarter of 2024.
MPS Terminal 3 is recognised as a vital transport infrastructure for the vision of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), said a release.
Source : Our Correspondent