The Minister for Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, announced urgent measures to decongest Ghana’s ports. This follows a nearly 100 percent increase in container volumes. Mr. Nikpe described this surge as unprecedented over the past 20 years.
The rise in container traffic has created operational challenges at the Meridian Port Services (MPS) Terminal in Tema. Delays in cargo clearance have raised concerns about Ghana’s competitiveness as a regional trade hub. Industry players noted persistent system outages at MPS as a significant issue affecting cargo-handling efficiency.
In an interview on Channel One TV’s The Point of View, Mr. Nikpe discussed government actions to address the situation. He emphasized the need to evacuate containers that have overstayed at the port. He tasked the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority with compiling a list of these containers for handover to the Ghana Revenue Authority.
Mr. Nikpe mentioned that shipping lines are encouraged to remove empty containers from the port. They are making efforts to bring in more ships for this purpose, aiming to avoid confiscation of their containers. He reiterated that container volumes had surged almost 100 percent, an unprecedented level.
He visited the port recently to engage with officials on congestion solutions. The meeting was productive, focusing on decisive actions needed for decongestion. The surge in imports and insufficient export cargo has increased pressure on terminal space.
Shipping lines occupy much of Terminal 3’s available space and facilities operated by the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority. To alleviate congestion, Mr. Nikpe stated that government is collaborating with the Railway Development Authority to use its terminal space temporarily for container evacuation.
He also highlighted plans to remove containers older than six months from the port. Shipping lines were urged to clear their long-staying containers promptly, with involvement from the Ghana Revenue Authority for confiscation and auctioning.
Additionally, Mr. Nikpe revealed plans for acquiring two new cranes by the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority. These cranes aim to improve loading and offloading processes while reducing delays and demurrage costs for shipping lines.
Beyond immediate actions, he mentioned long-term strategies for expanding port infrastructure due to rising container traffic demands. Both Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority and Meridian Port Services are expected to enhance their facilities and construct additional berths.
Mr. Nikpe identified inadequate road infrastructure as another factor contributing to congestion at ports. The government is working with MPS and Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority on expanding routes around Tema Harbour for better traffic flow.
These combined measures aim to free up terminal space, enhance cargo-handling efficiency, and ensure ports can manage increased container volumes effectively.
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