By Emmanuel Gamson, GNA
Takoradi, Jan. 28, GNA – The Ghana Manganese Company (GMC), in collaboration with the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), and Cosco Shipping Lines has welcomed and inaugurated the largest bulk carrier vessel to ever berth in any West African Waters to the Takoradi Port.
The vessel, christened MV CSB Years, with a capacity of 300,000 metric tonnes, arrived at the Takoradi Port as part of strategic moves to enhance business growth of the GMC in line with its 10million target for 2026.
Speaking at a ceremony to mark the arrival of the vessel, Mr Joseph Nelson, the Western Regional Minister, said the arrival of the MV CSB Years signalled Ghana’s emergence as a serious maritime force on the global stage.
He said this achievement demonstrated Ghana’s readiness to handle mega-vessels, expand bulk export capacity, and compete among leading international port destinations.
“With a capacity of approximately 300,000 metric tonnes, this vessel represents scale, confidence, efficiency, and trust in Ghana’s port infrastructure, particularly the strategic Port of Takoradi,” he noted.
According to Mr Nelson, this milestone aligned seamlessly with the government’s vision for a 24-Hour Economy meant to enhance industrial productivity, accelerate economic growth, strengthen export competitiveness, and modernise national infrastructure.
He said: “For the Western Region, this development positions Takoradi as a logistics and industrial anchor capable of attracting global shipping lines, expanding mineral exports, reducing turnaround time, lowering shipping costs, and strengthening Ghana’s competitive advantage in international trade.”
The Regional Minister commended the GMC, GPHA and the Cosco Shipping Lines for the gesture, and asked stakeholders to let the achievement to inspire them to pursue excellence, deepen partnerships, and strengthen Ghana’s position as a global maritime and trade destination.
Mr Sun Yuanwei, Deputy Managing Director of GMC, said the arrival of the MV CSB Years marked a new era not only for GMC but for the region’s maritime and mining industries.
He stated that the achievement was the result of a vision pursued with persistence, innovation, and collaboration, and reflected what was possible when government institutions, international partners, and local industries worked toward a common goal.
“The successful docking of this vessel demonstrates that our infrastructure, our people, and our ambitions are ready for the challenges and opportunities of the future,” he added.
Nana Kobina Nketsia V, President of the Western Regional House of Chiefs, applauded the GMC and its partners for the feat, saying their foresight could transform Takoradi from a regional hub into a global powerhouse in the maritime industry.
He charged them to invest in the youth, train them as maritime engineers, logistics experts, and sustainable miners, while protecting the environment.
Mr Kofi Arko Nokoe, the Government Representative on the GMC Board, said the docking of the MV CSB Years would bring increased commercial activity, skills development, and new opportunities for local businesses, while reinforcing confidence in Ghana’s ability to handle larger volumes of trade and more complex industrial operations.
GNA
Edited by Justina Hilda Paaga/Linda Asante Agyei