Joseph Bukari Nikpe calls for port digitalization to boost regional trade

John Asiedu Nketiah inspects infrastructure upgrades at Tema Port

The Board of Directors of the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), led by Chairman John Asiedu Nketiah, has conducted a comprehensive inspection of ongoing infrastructure upgrades at the Port of Tema. This site visit focused on assessing the completion of dredging works and the ongoing rehabilitation of the port's breakwater, both of which are central to the authority's efforts to modernize maritime operations in Ghana. The inspection serves to ensure that these key infrastructure investments are meeting technical specifications and project timelines for the benefit of the national economy. A key highlight of the inspection was the successful completion of dredging activities at selected berths within the port. These berths have been deepened from an initial 11 metres to a depth of 14 metres. This significant increase in draft allows the Port of Tema to accommodate larger, modern container vessels that require deeper water to dock safely. By facilitating the arrival of these high-capacity ships, the GPHA expects to lower the cost of doing business at the port and significantly improve the overall efficiency of maritime trade within the West African sub-region. Beyond the dredging works, the board reviewed the progress of the breakwater rehabilitation, a project currently being executed by GYTD Group Limited. Chairman Nketiah expressed his satisfaction with the pace of the construction, stating that the project is on schedule for completion within the next month. The rehabilitation of the breakwater is essential for providing a calm harbour environment, protecting vessels from wave action, and ensuring that port operations can continue safely even during adverse weather conditions. Major General Paul Seidu Tanye-Kulono, the Director-General of GPHA, accompanied the board during the tour and underscored the commercial importance of these upgrades. He noted that once the works are fully commissioned, they will significantly enhance the port's operational capacity and commercial appeal to international shipping lines. These infrastructure improvements are part of a broader strategy under the current administration of President John Mahama to strengthen Ghana's logistics sector and maintain the Port of Tema as a premier gateway for regional trade.