The Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) has stepped up operational measures at the Port of Tema as authorities move to ease mounting congestion and improve the movement of cargo within Ghana’s busiest seaport.
The congestion has been linked to a sharp rise in import traffic, growing volumes of empty containers awaiting export and traffic challenges within and around the port enclave.
In a statement, GPHA said the situation had affected the smooth evacuation and transfer of both laden and empty containers, prompting the Authority to intensify coordination with key players in the maritime and logistics sector.
According to GPHA, similar congestion pressures are being experienced at several ports across the West African sub-region, creating operational challenges for shipping and cargo movement.
The Authority said relevant stakeholders had been placed on heightened operational alert as it works with shipping lines, terminal operators and other industry players to improve the flow of containers.
Empty Container Evacuation Accelerated
As part of the response, GPHA is accelerating the evacuation of empty containers through increased vessel calls and stronger coordination of container transfer operations.
Truck deployment is also being strengthened to facilitate faster movement of containers and reduce pressure on available storage areas.
The Authority said improvements were being made to empty-container management systems to ensure that containers awaiting export are moved out more efficiently.
These interventions are expected to free up critical space within the port and support smoother cargo-handling operations.
GPHA Moves to Maximise Terminal Capacity
Beyond container evacuation, GPHA said it was optimising the use of available yard space and strengthening traffic management arrangements within the port.
The measures are intended to maximise terminal capacity while reducing delays associated with the movement of trucks, containers and other cargo.
Efficient use of available space has become particularly important as increased import volumes place additional pressure on port infrastructure and cargo-handling facilities.
GPHA said it would continue working with terminal operators and other stakeholders to address bottlenecks and improve operational efficiency.
Importers Urged to Clear Cargo Quickly
The Authority has also appealed to importers, clearing agents and cargo owners to expedite the clearance and evacuation of their consignments.
GPHA explained that delays in removing cleared cargo contribute to congestion by occupying space that could otherwise be used to accommodate incoming consignments.
Prompt cargo evacuation, it said, would create additional storage capacity, improve turnaround times and support the continuous movement of goods through the port.
The cooperation of businesses and clearing agents will therefore be crucial to efforts to restore normal operating conditions.
GPHA Assures Trading Community
Management of GPHA said the congestion situation was being closely monitored and additional interventions would be introduced where necessary.
The Authority reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a safe, efficient and competitive port system capable of supporting Ghana’s international trade and broader economic growth.
GPHA also expressed appreciation to importers, exporters, clearing agents, transport operators and the wider trading community for their cooperation and patience as measures are implemented to address the congestion.
The Port of Tema remains a critical gateway for Ghana’s international trade, making efficient cargo movement essential to businesses, supply chains and economic activity.
GPHA said its immediate priority is to ease the current pressure, improve container evacuation and restore efficient cargo flow within the port.
Source: Isaac Kofi Dzokpo
