In a landmark moment for maritime trade in West Africa, MPS Terminal 3 at the Port of Tema has successfully received one of the world’s largest container ships, the 400-meter-long MSC TÜRKIYE. Arriving in broad daylight, this historic call marks a significant step forward in positioning Tema as a major transshipment and trade hub along the West African coast.
With a draft of 16 meters and a beam of 61 meters, the MSC TÜRKIYE is one of the largest vessels ever to berth in Sub-Saharan Africa. Its arrival underscores the advanced infrastructure and capacity of MPS Terminal 3, purpose-built to accommodate vessels of this scale.
By deploying vessels of this magnitude, MSC affirms its commitment to the economic development of the sub-region and consolidates its role as a leading logistics partner in Africa. This strategic initiative embodies a clear vision: to connect Africa to the rest of the world through MSC’s extensive maritime and terrestrial network, which enables the provision of door-to-door solutions, ensuring smooth and efficient logistics across the continent.
“The arrival of 24,000 TEU ultra-large container vessels on African shores marks not only a major milestone for MSC but also reflects our dedication to strengthening trade infrastructure, driving economic growth across West Africa, and supporting local communities,” said Garmy Sy, Managing Director of MSC Ghana. “These vessels represent progress—bringing new opportunities, creating jobs, and fueling Ghana’s long-term development.”
Bringing MSC TÜRKIYE to Tema Port is a proud milestone for Ghana and MPS Terminal. This vessel represents a new chapter in maritime connectivity, reinforcing our commitment to improving trade routes and accelerating regional economic development.
“This is the fulfilment of a vision we set in motion back in 2019 at the Go-Live of Terminal 3,” said Mr. Mohamed Samara, CEO of Meridian Port Services Ltd (MPS). “We built this terminal to welcome the world’s largest ships. Today, with the arrival of MSC TÜRKIYE, we see that vision come to life. It stands as a testament to our shareholders’ continued investment and belief in the future of West African trade.”
The MSC TÜRKIYE operates on the Africa Express Service, a dedicated maritime service operated by MSC that links major ports in Asia and West Africa. Since its inception, the service has steadily optimised transit times and expanded its port network. MPS Terminal 3 is the first port of call on this service, delivering faster turnaround and direct connections between Ghana, the Far East, and Southeast Asia.
Prior to docking in Tema, the MSC TÜRKIYE made port calls in Shanghai, Nansha, Shekou, Vungtau, Singapore, and Vizhinjam International Seaport. It completed the voyage to Tema in just 17 days, surpassing the typical 21-day transit time from Asia, a notable achievement in shipping efficiency.
At MPS Terminal 3, the vessel discharged and loaded cargo destined for Ghana, the Sahel region, and other coastal West African nations. From Tema, it will continue its journey to Lomé, Abidjan, Kribi, and back to the Far East. Cargo for other regional markets will be transhipped via feeder vessels, further enhancing connectivity across the sub-region.
This development aligns closely with the ambitions of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), providing critical infrastructure to support intra-African trade and broader economic integration.
Over the coming years, MPS Terminal 3 is poised to receive more ultra-large container vessels on a regular basis, highlighting the port’s readiness to handle the growing demands of global shipping. The improved efficiency and shorter transit times make Tema a preferred first port of call for several key trade routes, opening up fresh opportunities for manufacturers, exporters, and the agroindustry in Ghana and beyond.
The arrival of MSC TÜRKIYE is more than a milestone; it is a signal of West Africa’s growing stature in global maritime trade.
