The Board of the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) have visited the Tema Port Expansion Project. Led by the Chairman, Mr. Peter Mac Manu, the Board visited the site to familiarize themselves with the progress of work.
The Board were first taken through a presentation showing the milestone achievements in the different phases of the project. Briefing the Board, Mr. Mohamed Samara, CEO of MPS mentioned that: the project has undergone significant changes in the last 2 years to meet the anticipated Go-Live date in June this year.
CONCERNS ADRESSED
The Board used the opportunity to clarify matters on varied concerns raised by some sections of the media and general public regarding redundancy of GPHA workers and some alleged inconsistencies in the concession agreement. These matters were explained to the understanding of the Board by the Management of MPS headed by the CEO, Mohamed Samara.
The gathering then shared ideas on how to mutually work to position Tema Port as the first port of call in West Africa. The Board members and MPS proceeded to the site to have a first-hand impression of the project.
PROJECT IMPRESSIONS
The highlight of the Board’s visit was their impressions upon visiting the new container terminal.
The Board Chairman, Peter Mac Manu stated that this project is for Ghana, the architectural and engineering piece is one that is remarkable. This will accelerate economic growth and development of this nation. He added that it was important that all relevant stakeholders focused on the vast benefits of the project for the future generation.
A member of the Board, Nana Adu Gyamfi expressed his delight about the transfer of skills from the expatriate workforce to their Ghanaian counterparts. He said this was particularly commendable as it ensured the needed knowledge and skills were retained with competent people who would be available to manage the ultra- modern facility created.
Michael Achagwe Luguje, Director General of GPHA commenting on the project indicated “As an authority, we are here to facilitate government efforts to create the environment that makes shipping seamless and efficient. So far, MPS and by extension Tema Port has proven that with the right blend of technology, equipment and internationally accepted standards, productivity soars.
The newly appointed Port Director, Mrs Sandra Opoku said: I am impressed with what I have seen here. With my role as the Director of Port, I look forward to collaborating with MPS to achieve the vision of making Tema Port the best in Africa.
The project which is being implemented in phases has its first phase scheduled to Go-Live on June 28 while the 2nd Phase will follow suit in 2020. After completion, the new container terminal is expected to transform the economy of Ghana with an increase in trade competitiveness, increased revenue and overall added value to multiple sectors of the nation.
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