BISSAU

• GWOXB
• Latitude: 11.856
• Longitude: -15.577
• West Africa
• Port in Guinea-Bissau

Location: Bissau Guinea-Bissau

Marine Port Description and Specifications: Bissau, Guinea-Bissau

Location:

• Port Name: Port of Bissau
• Country: Guinea-Bissau
• Coordinates: Approximately 11.85° N latitude and 15.58° W longitude
• Body of Water: Situated on the Geba River estuary

General Description:

• Type: Natural river port
• Primary Use: Commercial shipping, fishing, and passenger services
• Significance: Main port of Guinea-Bissau, supporting the majority of the country’s maritime trade

Facilities:

• Berths: Multiple berths available for different types of vessels, including container ships, general cargo vessels, and fishing boats.
• Terminals:
  • Container Terminal: Handles containerized cargo with storage facilities and equipment for loading/unloading.
  • Bulk Terminal: Equipped to handle bulk cargo, including grains and other commodities.
  • Fish Terminal: Dedicated facilities for fishing vessels and processing areas.
• Storage: Warehousing facilities for dry and refrigerated cargo.
• Additional Infrastructure: Repair and maintenance facilities, fueling stations, customs offices, and administrative buildings.

Handling Equipment:

• Cranes: Mobile and fixed cranes for container and cargo handling.
• Forklifts, Reach Stackers, and Yard Trucks: Various equipment to handle and transport cargo within the port area.

Capacity and Throughput:

• Annual Cargo Throughput: The port handles a significant portion of the nation's imports and exports, with capacity dependent on current infrastructure and operational efficiency.
• Vessel Accommodations: The port can accommodate vessels with moderate draught limits, subject to river depth and tidal constraints.

Navigation and Access:

• Approach: Accessible via the Geba River, with navigational aids such as buoys and lighted markers to guide vessels.
• Depth: Varies along the berths; detailed hydrographic data should be reviewed for specific draught requirements.
• Tidal Information: The port is affected by tidal variations, which can influence docking and cargo operations.

Services:

• Pilotage: Mandatory pilotage services for berthing and unberthing operations.
• Tug Assistance: Available for maneuvering larger vessels.
• Bunkering: Fueling services available for vessels calling the port.
• Ship Chandling: Provision of supplies and equipment for visiting ships.
• Waste Disposal: Facilities and services for the disposal of shipboard waste.

Security and Regulations:

• Security Measures: Compliance with International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.
• Customs and Immigration: Onsite facilities for customs clearance and immigration checkpoints.
• Health and Safety: Health and safety protocols as per international and local regulations.

Economic Significance:

• Trade Contribution: Imports primarily include fuel, machinery, and foodstuffs, while exports are dominated by agricultural products such as cashew nuts and fish.
• Employment: The port is a major employer in the region, supporting both direct and indirect jobs.

Recent Developments and Future Plans:

• Infrastructure Upgrades: Ongoing or planned projects to improve port infrastructure, increase capacity, and enhance operational efficiency.
• Investment Opportunities: Potential for investment in port facilities, logistics, and supportive industries.

Additional Notes:

• The port's operation and efficiency are subject to periodic improvements funded by international aid and government initiatives.
• Stakeholders may include government bodies, private companies, and international organizations working towards port development.

Contact Information:

• Port Authority: Contact details for the port authority or management entity can be found via official government or maritime directories.

This concise overview provides a snapshot of the Bissau marine port, essential for stakeholders, shippers, and logistics professionals engaging with Guinea-Bissau’s maritime activities.