Tema Port, which is situated some 25 kilometers to the east of Accra, is Ghana's largest and most busy seaport. Spread over a total area of about 5.5 million square meters, it is one of the most important enablers of West African trade. The fact that it is also on important international shipping lanes further helps it to be a prominent maritime hub in the region.
Historical Background
Tema Port was initially developed during the colonial era and has been continuously expanded to cater to growing international trade needs. It has grown to become a well-established, modern port that stimulates Ghana's economic development and serves as a gateway for landlocked nations in the region.
Facilities and Equipment at Tema Port
Tema Port is equipped with modern facilities to handle various types of cargo efficiently. What follows is an overview of facilities and equipment at the port:
Berths and Terminals
Multipurpose Berths: 12 of the deep-water berths at the port are constructed to handle various types of cargo, such as containerized cargo, bulk cargo, and Ro-Ro vessels. The berths have a draught of 8.2 up to 16 meters, thus can be accessed by large ships.
Dedicated Container Terminal: The latest terminal is exclusively meant for containerized cargo, enhancing the productivity of container handling operations.
Cargo Handling Equipment
Ship-to-Shore (STS) Cranes: These are high-capacity cranes that load and unload containers to facilitate quicker turnaround times for vessels.
Mobile Harbor Cranes: These are versatile cranes that can handle a range of cargoes, including heavy lift and oversized cargo.
Storage Facilities
Paved Storage Facilities: There are large paved storage facilities within the port to receive both containerized and conventional cargo.
Warehouses: Numerous warehouses within the port provide safe storage facilities for all types of cargo, from perishable to valuable goods.
Cold Storage Facilities: Temperature-controlled storage facilities are available for perishables like agricultural produce and pharmaceuticals to store them appropriately.
Shipyard and Dry Dock Facilities
Tema Shipyard: One of the biggest shipyards in the African continent with graving docks that can take vessels up to 100,000 deadweight tonnage (DWT). It has ship repair, maintenance, and dry-docking facilities.
Navigation and Safety Aids
Tugboats: Port-owned high-power tugboats equipped with firefighting tools are utilized in the safe navigation of ships.
Pilotage Services: Ships are guided by expert pilots on entry and departure, ensuring safe navigation.
Communication Systems: Complex communication systems, including 24-hour radio watch and maritime distress systems, enhance coordination and response to emergencies.
Additional Amenities
Ro-Ro Terminal: A terminal dedicated to the shipping of automobiles and heavy equipment, providing seamless import and export for the auto and industrial sectors.
Bulk Terminals: There are specialized terminals to handle liquid and dry bulk cargoes such as petroleum products, cement, and grains.
Railway Terminal: An on-site rail connection integrates the port into the Ghanaian national rail system, increasing the efficiency of cargo transportation and reducing road congestion.
Operational Services
Tema Port operates 24/7 and offers a wide range of services to enable smooth trade activities.
Shipping Services: The port can handle various types of vessels, such as container vessels, tankers, general cargo vessels, and Ro-Ro vessels.
Cargo Operations: Fast loading, unloading, and transshipment of cargo are ensured by modern equipment and highly trained staff.
Customs and Clearance: Automated customs systems have streamlined clearance, reducing delays and making it more efficient.
Economic Importance
Tema Port handles around 80% of Ghana's total imports and exports and is the backbone of Ghana's economy. It is used as a transit point for landlocked nations like Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger to connect with global trading routes. The port activity provides tremendous job opportunities and attracts foreign investment in the country, spurring development in the area. Challenges and Future Developments Although of great importance, Tema Port also faces challenges such as congestion, security, and infrastructure needs. To surpass them, there are numerous development projects in progress: Expansion Projects: Developing more berths and warehouses to accommodate growing trade volumes. Technological Upgrades: Introduction of automated freight tracking and computerized administration systems to enhance operational efficiency. Tema Port continues to be a foundation in Ghana's maritime industry, catering to both national and regional trade. As it expands and improves its facilities, Tema Port will continue to be a main driver of economic development and international trade.
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