Last week, Terminal 3 at Tema Port, Ghana, became the first port of call in Africa to welcome the new Maersk FEW3 service connecting all major portss in West Africa with all key ports in Asia. The service will provide Ghanaian trade and industry with a distinct advantage – the shortest transit time compared to all other ports in the region.
The maiden voyage was undertaken by Maersk Edirne, which boasts a carrying capacity of 13,092 TEUs, an overall length (LOA) of 366 meters, and a width of 48 meters.
Following calls at the Chinese ports of Chiwan and Nansha and cargo loading in Singapore, the Maersk Edirne set sail from Malaysia’s Tanjung Pelepas port on December 26, 2023, arriving at Terminal 3, Tema Port after just 20 days on January 16, 2024.
Terminal 3 is operated by MPS, a joint venture between Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority and Meridian Port Holdings Limited (30%), which is, in turn, a joint venture with Africa Global Logistics (35%) and APM Terminals (35%). Tema Port is widely recognized by all shipping lines as the best performing Container Terminal/Port in West and Central Africa.
Shorter transit times between Far East and Africa
According to Razak Ngula, Maersk Managing Director for Ghana, this strategic move reflects the burgeoning trade market for Africa. “West Africa is experiencing significant growth in its market, and the deployment of this vessel highlights the fact that we have growing customer needs that demand satisfaction. The upgraded service ensures reliable and shorter transit times between the Far East and Africa, making Tema the gateway to West Africa,” stated Ngula.
The unloading and loading operations for the 7,128 TEU’s from/to Maersk Edirne were executed in 5,109 moves, including the handling of Hatch-Covers. Among these, 1,270 TEUs of transshipment containers were reloaded onto feeder vessels for their final destinations at other regional ports. The vessel productivity reached an unprecedented 169.92 BMPH (Berths Moved Per Hour), setting a new record.
Record breaking efficiency
Muhammad Rashid, Planning Manager, attributed the success to effective coordination with the lines’ global stowage team, resulting in optimal crane intensity. He emphasised strategic planning, which enabled a balanced crane-split and flexibility in deploying Ship-To-Shore Gantry Cranes during the call. Mr. Rashid highlighted the elimination of waiting time at anchorage, with operations commencing just 37 minutes after all-fast.
Increased supply chain reliability
Eva Kwarteng, Import and Export Manager for Nestle Ghana, highlighted the impact on their business. “This essentially means that our supplies for manufacturing will arrive on time, expediting production and sales. The improved capacity and efficiency of MPS Terminal 3 are impressive and commendable for a business dependent on enhanced transport services.”
Mohamed Samara, CEO of MPS, added that selecting Tema Port as the first port of call for vessels from the Far East is significant for Ghana’s Trade and Industry. “This strategic decision is set to deliver the shortest transit time, reducing shipping costs and enhancing the overall logistics chain.”
He added: “This facilitates quicker turnaround for goods, enabling businesses to operate with increased agility and responsiveness to market demands, fostering growth and competitiveness.”
Supporting economic development in Ghana and surrounding countries
In essence, the designation of Tema Port as the first port of call not only consolidates the port’s capabilities but also showcases MPS’ key role in propelling economic development through heightened trade efficiency, decreased shipping costs, and an optimised logistics chain.
This strategic move is poised to greatly benefit the dynamic Trade and Industry sector in Ghana and neighbouring coastal countries, extending its positive impact to landlocked nations such as Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali. This initiative further solidifies Ghana’s position as a central hub in the global marketplace.
Source: APM Terminals