By Issah Mohammed
Accra, Oct 19, GNA – The Ghana Ports and Habour Authority (GPHA) has entered into a partnership agreement with the McDan Group for the development of a marine terminal facility on the Volta River.
The project, which aligns with GPHA’s Master Ports Plan to enhance cargo services and socio-economic activities, is expected to streamline the export of salt, reduce logistics costs, and ultimately support regional and global market demands.
A Memorandum of Understanding was signed to that effect by Mr Michael Achagwe Luguje, Director General of GPHA and Dr. Daniel McKorley, Executive Chairman of the McDan Group.
Under the agreement, both parties will form a Joint Project Development Team to oversee technical meetings, stakeholder engagement, and operational protocols.
The McDan group, which is into salt production through its subsidiary, ElectroChem Ghana Limited, will handle the project’s financial aspects, while GPHA will provide guidance and support for acquiring necessary permits and approvals.
In a press statement, the McDan group explained that “the partnership arises from McDan’s need for a more efficient logistics solution for salt exports, given the challenges of road haulage to the distant Port of Tema.”
According to the statement, the Executive Chairman described the MoU as a vital step toward strengthening Ghana’s marine sector and contributing to broader economic development.
The McDan Group envisions creating a sustainable ecosystem that fosters growth and innovation within the Ada community.
It aims to bolster Ghana’s salt production capabilities, with ElectroChem’s potential output exceeding two million tonnes annually.
This increase in production is expected to create jobs, reduce salt imports, and enhance the socio-economic conditions of the Ada community
“Significant steps have already been taken, including acquiring the port site, conducting feasibility studies, and engaging with stakeholders. Ongoing discussions with potential investors to secure financing for the project is progressing,” the statement highlighted.
Components of the project include, conducting feasibility studies to assess technical, economic, and environmental viability; improving navigation infrastructure to facilitate safe shipping from the Atlantic Ocean to the terminal and the upgrading of road access to enhance connectivity between Ada and major highways.
The project also entails the construction of port facilities such as quay walls, berths for vessels, and terminal facilities for salt management and cargo services.
The facility when completed would be named the “ElectroChem Terminal, Port of Ada”.
GNA