The Port of Takoradi is set to make history later this month as it prepares to receive the largest bulk carrier ever to call at any port in West Africa.
Ghana Manganese Company (GMC), in partnership with Cosco Shipping Lines and the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), has announced an inauguration and welcome ceremony to mark the arrival of the MV CBS Years, a massive 300,000 deadweight tonnage (DWT) vessel. The historic berthing is scheduled for Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at the Takoradi Port.
The arrival of the MV CBS Years represents a major milestone for Ghana’s maritime and extractive industries and signals a significant business turning point for GMC. The vessel’s call aligns with the company’s ambitious 10 million-tonne production and export target for 2026, and is expected to substantially boost bulk export volumes through the Takoradi Port. This, in turn, will enhance export revenues for GPHA and contribute positively to Ghana’s overall economic performance.
In anticipation of the vessel’s arrival, extensive preparations have been undertaken to ensure the highest safety and operational standards. GMC sponsored selected GPHA marine operations staff, including pilots, to China for advanced simulation training and berthing exercises. These exercises were designed to replicate the complex hydrodynamic and navigational requirements of cape-size vessels, ensuring safe, controlled and predictable berthing and cargo loading operations under local command.
To further strengthen operational readiness, GPHA has developed a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to guide the vessel’s movements and activities at the port. In addition, GMC and GPHA jointly engaged a third-party firm to conduct detailed risk assessments, including digital simulation of berthing and unberthing manoeuvres. Real-time UAV surveillance will also be deployed to monitor operations and enhance safety throughout the vessel’s stay.
The inauguration ceremony will attract senior government officials, industry leaders, international shipping partners and key stakeholders from across the maritime and logistics sectors. The event will formally commemorate this unprecedented achievement while underscoring a shared commitment to infrastructure development, professional capacity building, cross-sector collaboration, skills development and the long-term growth of maritime trade in Ghana.
Ghana Manganese Company says the successful berthing of the MV CBS Years reflects its commitment to playing a meaningful role in sustainable national economic growth, while positioning Takoradi Port as a competitive hub for large-scale bulk shipping in the region.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
