Tema, Ghana – 1^st September 2023 – Meridian Port Services Ltd (MPS) proudly announces the successful arrival of the 15 cutting-edge gantry cranes, a pivotal development in Phase 2 of the Tema Port Expansion Project. This transformative project encompasses 3 Ship-to-Shore (STS) cranes and 12 Electric Rubber-Tyred Gantry (eRTG) cranes, meticulously designed to amplify productivity and solidify Tema Port’s status as the premier commercial container hub in West Africa.

In a significant milestone, MPS awarded the construction, delivery, and commissioning contract for these advanced gantry cranes to Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industry Co. Ltd (ZPMC) in January 2022. After rigorous construction and inspections, these cranes embarked on their voyage from Shanghai, China, over a month ago, culminating in their eagerly awaited arrival at MPS Terminal 3 by the close of August 2023.

The arrival of these state-of-the-art gantry cranes signals a momentous enhancement in Tema Port’s cargo-handling capacity and productivity, aligning it with the growing demands of global trade. The port’s arsenal, now totalling 12 Quay Cranes and 41 Yard Cranes, cements Tema Port’s standing as one of Sub-Saharan Africa’s most efficient ports. This accomplishment continues to gain international recognition, with leading global shipping lines increasingly favouring Tema Port as their preferred hub.

Mr. Mohamed Samara, Chief Executive Officer of MPS, voiced his enthusiasm for this pivotal development, stating, “These key milestones cement our role as a port primed for future growth in cargo volumes. Our shareholders’ consistent investments are the driving force behind our vision and the MPS management’s unwavering commitment to meeting project timelines for the second phase of the Tema Port Expansion empowers us to elevate Tema Port to sub-regional hub status. “

The acquisition of these gantry cranes represents an additional investment of over $62 million in Ghana’s maritime sector, a testament to the commitment of MPS to fostering economic growth. The high-tech STS cranes, classified as Super-Post Panamax, boast the capability to service the world’s largest vessels, featuring an impressive outreach of 66 meters and the ability to handle containers up to the 23rd row of vessels. These cranes also offer the unique ability to stack containers over 10 units high on deck, equipped with twin-lift spreaders capable of handling loads of up to 65 tons.

In the days ahead, following their arrival and unloading, the gantry cranes will undergo thorough installation, endurance testing, and full commissioning. These meticulous measures ensure the seamless integration of the cranes into the port’s existing operations, optimizing efficiency and safety.

The Tema Port Expansion Project, MPS Terminal 3, stands as a testament to MPS’ commitment to driving value creation across key sectors of the economy. This project’s use of cutting-edge technology and equipment will result in reduced freight costs, paving the way for a prosperous and streamlined maritime industry.

About Meridian Port Services Ltd (MPS):

MPS, a leading port operator in Ghana, specializes in port and container terminal handling services. Established as a joint venture between Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), Africa Global Logistics (AGL), and APM Terminals, MPS remains resolute in its mission to stimulate growth, innovation, and efficiency within Ghana’s vibrant maritime sector.