Tema, Ghana – A defining milestone unfolded over the weekend at Meridian Port Services Ltd (MPS) as three of the world’s four largest container vessels (MSC LORETO, MSC IRINA, and MSC TESSA) berthed at MPS Terminal 3 of Tema Port. The dovetailing flow of these megaships and handling operations represent a turning point for West Africa, boldly elevating Ghana’s stature in the world of maritime logistics.

The vessels called on 25^th, 28^th and 30^th November, each exceeding the 24,000 TEU class; a scale previously associated with only the most advanced maritime hubs of Europe and Asia. What once seemed aspirational for the sub-region has now become reality. Tema has proven itself capable, resilient, and ready for the new era of container megaships.

MSC IRINA, THE MOTHER OF ALL VESSELS, arrived under the TIGER Service, MSC’s strategic Asia–Mediterranean–Europe rotation.

The other two giants, MSC LORETO and MSC TESSA, operate on MSC’s Africa Express Service (AFEX), a direct, high-speed Asia–West Africa corridor that supports import/export efficiency while strengthening regional supply chains.

Their call at Tema confirms Ghana’s reliability as a deep-water berth for Ultra Large Container Vessels (ULCVs) operating on long-haul main trade loops.

The simultaneous presence of AFEX and TIGER at a single West African terminal marks Tema’s entry into the ranks of emerging global mega-hub ports, a convergence of world trade in one location.

The seamless berthing and operational execution of these vessels demonstrate clearly:

• Readiness for routine ULCV traffic
• Excellent berth capability and crane productivity
• Ghana’s rising influence in global logistics

Tema is no longer preparing for the future; Tema is the future. A megamax-ready port of global reference.

To meet increasing vessel size and volume, MPS is rolling out a bold infrastructure and equipment expansion programme engineered specifically for 24,000+ TEU capacity vessels. The terminal is set to receive during the 1^st half of the coming year 3 new Super-Post Panamax STS Cranes, 12 Electric RTGs, and 41 Fully Electric Terminal Tractors.

All scheduled for full commissioning from 1^st July 2026, these investments strengthen productivity, elevate digital performance, and reinforce our commitment to environmental sustainability. This is not just growth, it is transformation.