Meridian Port Services’ Tema Port Expansion: A Gateway to Enhanced Trade Capacity in Ghana

Meridian Port Services (MPS) is on the verge of a major milestone with the impending delivery of 15 gantry cranes, set to be the centerpiece of the second phase of the ambitious US$1.5 billion Tema Port expansion project in Ghana. This project, initiated to bolster the port’s capabilities and accommodate growing trade demands, has been making remarkable progress.

In January 2022, Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industry secured a US$53.3 million contract to construct, deliver, and commission three ship-to-shore cranes and 12 electric rubber-tyred gantry cranes. With these advanced cranes forming a crucial part of the expansion, the stage was set for the next phase of development.

Underway since mid-June, the second phase’s civil works are being executed by the renowned Eiffage Génie Civil Marine from France, in collaboration with local firm De Simone, the same team that successfully completed the first phase. To ensure stability for the heavy cranes, a sprawling 270,000 square meters area is being paved with an impressive 14 million pavement blocks. The project also involves the installation of 16km of cable conduits and 5.5km of drainage pipes, which will effectively support the operational yard and expand the terminal’s capacity from 80 hectares to an impressive 120 hectares.

The completion target for this significant endeavor is set for September 2025. Upon finalization, the Tema Port’s container handling capacity will receive a substantial boost, increasing from 2.5 million TEUs to an impressive 3.7 million TEUs.

The first phase of the expansion, completed in August 2021, was a remarkable achievement in itself. It comprised the construction of a dedicated container terminal, including a breakwater, harbor basin, deep port access channel, a 1.4km wharf boasting four berths, and essential administrative buildings, workshops, and utilities. The project management consultancy was provided by the esteemed US-based firm AECOM, while the marine works contract was successfully secured by China Harbor Engineering Company.

At the core of the initiative is the MPS, a joint venture between Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority and Meridian Port Holdings Limited. This latter entity, Meridian Port Holdings Limited, is itself a noteworthy joint venture between Africa Global Logistics and APM Terminals, bringing together a wealth of expertise and resources to drive the expansion project forward.

The Tema Port expansion holds immense promise for Ghana’s economic growth, offering enhanced trade capabilities and attracting larger vessels with its upgraded infrastructure. As the project progresses towards completion, it is poised to position Ghana as a regional trade hub, fostering increased prosperity for the nation and the entire West African region.

By: Liz Bains

Source: constructafrica.com