TEMA

• GHTEM
• Latitude: 5.63285
• Longitude: 0.0127
• West Africa
• Port in Ghana

Location: Tema Greater Accra Region Ghana

Web-site: http://www.ghanaports.gov.gh/tema

Port of Tema, Ghana

Overview: The Port of Tema is one of Ghana’s primary maritime gateways, handling the majority of the country's cargo traffic. Situated on the eastern coast of Ghana, approximately 25 kilometers from the capital city, Accra, the port is strategically important for both national and regional trade. It plays a crucial role in fostering economic growth, serving landlocked countries in the region, including Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger.

Geographical Coordinates:

• Latitude: 5.6357° N
• Longitude: 0.0173° E

History and Development: The port was officially opened in 1962, and since then, it has undergone continuous development and modernization. Significant expansions and upgrades have been made to accommodate increasing traffic and larger vessels.

Port Facilities and Infrastructure:

1. Terminals:

   • Container Terminal: Equipped with modern gantry cranes and yard equipment to handle containerized cargo efficiently. The terminal can handle a variety of container sizes and types, including reefers and flat racks.
   • Multipurpose Terminal: Designed to handle breakbulk cargo, project cargo, and Ro-Ro (roll-on/roll-off) operations. This terminal features heavy-duty forklifts and specialized equipment for oversized cargo.
   • Bulk Terminal: Facilities for handling dry bulk cargo such as grains, cement, and other commodities. It includes conveyor systems and silos for efficient loading and unloading.
   • Oil and Gas Terminal: Dedicated facilities for the energy sector, including storage tanks and pipeline connections.

2. Berths:

   • The port features over 20 berths with varying depths, accommodating vessels of different sizes. Berth depths range from approximately 9 meters to 17 meters, enabling the port to handle Panamax and even some post-Panamax vessels.

3. Storage and Warehousing:

   • Ample storage facilities including covered warehouses and open storage yards. State-of-the-art facilities ensure that goods are stored securely and systematically.
   • Cold storage facilities for perishable goods.

4. Equipment:

   • Modern equipment for efficient cargo handling, including ship-to-shore cranes, mobile cranes, reach stackers, straddle carriers, and terminal tractors.

Naval and Safety Features:

• Advanced navigation aids, including radar and GPS systems, ensure safe passage for vessels entering and leaving the port.
• Maritime security is a priority, with measures such as patrol boats, surveillance systems, and port police presence.

Connectivity:

• Road Access: Well-connected by road to major inland destinations, facilitating easy and efficient distribution of goods.
• Rail Access: Plans and ongoing projects to enhance rail connectivity, linking the port to national and regional rail networks.

Services:

• Piloting and towage services to assist in the navigation of vessels.
• Bunkering and provisions supply for vessels.
• Ship repair and maintenance facilities.

Port Authority:

• Managed by the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), which oversees all operations, development, and regulatory compliance in the port.

Economic Impact:

• The Port of Tema is a critical node in West Africa's trade and logistics network. It supports thousands of jobs directly and indirectly and contributes significantly to the Ghanaian economy through customs duties, service charges, and trade facilitation.

Environmental Considerations:

• The port administration is committed to sustainable practices, including waste management programs, pollution control measures, and initiatives aimed at reducing the carbon footprint associated with port operations.

In summary, the Port of Tema stands as a vital maritime hub in West Africa, bolstered by modern infrastructure, strategic planning, and a commitment to continually enhancing its capabilities to meet the growing demands of global maritime trade.