Mega ship docks in Ghana

Infrastructure investment meets demand

GHANA: MPS Terminal 3 at the Port of Tema recently received one of the world’s largest container ships, the 400-metre-long MSC Türkiye, effectively helping position the port as a major transshipment and trade hub along the West African coast.

With a draft of 16 metres and a beam of 61 metres, the container ship is one of the largest vessels ever to berth in Sub-Saharan Africa.

“The arrival of 24,000 TEU ultra-large container vessels on African shores marks not only a major milestone for MSC but also reflects our dedication to strengthening trade infrastructure, driving economic growth across West Africa, and supporting local communities,” said Garmy Sy, Managing Director of MSC Ghana. “These vessels represent progress—bringing new opportunities, creating jobs, and fuelling Ghana’s long-term development.”

“This is the fulfilment of a vision we set in motion back in 2019 at the Go-Live of Terminal 3,” said Mohamed Samara, CEO of Meridian Port Services Ltd (MPS). “We built this terminal to welcome the world’s largest ships. Today, with the arrival of MSC Türkiye, we see that vision come to life. It stands as a testament to our shareholders’ continued investment and belief in the future of West African trade.”

The MSC Türkiye operates on the Africa Express Service, a dedicated maritime service operated by MSC that links major ports in Asia and West Africa. Since its inception, the service has steadily optimised transit times and expanded its port network. MPS Terminal 3 is the first port of call on this service, delivering faster turnaround and direct connections between Ghana, the Far East, and Southeast Asia.

Prior to docking in Tema, the MSC Türkiye made port calls in Shanghai, Nansha, Shekou, Vungtau, Singapore, and Vizhinjam International Seaport. It completed the voyage to Tema in just 17 days, surpassing the typical 21-day transit time from Asia, a notable achievement in shipping efficiency.

At MPS Terminal 3, the vessel discharged and loaded cargo destined for Ghana, the Sahel region, and other coastal West African nations. From Tema, she will continue its journey to Lomé, Abidjan, Kribi, and back to the Far East. Cargo for other regional markets will be transhipped via feeder vessels, further enhancing connectivity across the sub-region.

This development aligns closely with the ambitions of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), providing critical infrastructure to support intra-African trade and broader economic integration.

Over the coming years, MPS Terminal 3 is poised to receive more ultra-large container vessels on a regular basis, highlighting the port’s readiness to handle the growing demands of global shipping. The improved efficiency and shorter transit times make Tema a preferred first port of call for several key trade routes, providing fresh opportunities for manufacturers, exporters, and the agroindustry in Ghana and beyond.