Mahama commissions Tema Port expansion project  

President John Dramani Mahama on Thursday, November 13, officially commissioned Phases One and Two of the Tema Port Expansion Project, a milestone aimed at positioning Ghana as a leading hub for global trade.

The newly expanded container terminal, developed by Meridian Port Services (MPS) in partnership with the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), Bolloré Transport and Logistics, and APM Terminals, connects Ghana to international shipping routes while boosting trade flows, creating jobs, and supporting economic development.

President Mahama, who had broken ground for the project on November 16, 2016, described the expansion as one of Africa’s most ambitious maritime infrastructure initiatives.

“This project is the realization of a dream we have nurtured for years to establish Ghana as a gateway to West Africa. Today that dream becomes a tangible reality, symbolizing both a national aspiration and international confidence,” he said.

The President highlighted that the modernization of Tema Port would enhance Ghana’s global competitiveness through improved logistics, shorter turnaround times, and increased operational efficiency. He said the facility ensures that exports reach markets faster while imports become more affordable, benefiting businesses and consumers alike.

“It is a strategic asset for attracting investment, creating jobs, and facilitating trade across multiple sectors. Beyond the impressive infrastructure, this project has focused on people, work, dignity, and opportunity,” President Mahama noted.

He emphasized the employment impact, saying thousands of Ghanaians—from engineers and technicians to logistics professionals, artisans, service providers, and suppliers—have benefited during construction and ongoing operations. The port has also catalyzed growth in supporting industries, including transport, warehousing, hospitality, and maintenance, creating a ripple effect of enterprise and innovation across the economy.

President Mahama further described Tema Port as a key driver of industrialization, value addition, and economic diversification, as well as a cornerstone for Ghana’s role in continental trade. “With the African Continental Free Trade Area headquartered here in Accra, Tema Port is strategically positioned as a critical artery of intra-African commerce,” he said.

He paid tribute to the late Alhaji Asumah Banda, former MPS Board Chairman, and the late Madam Dzifa Ativor, former Transport Minister, for their contributions to the project. He also recognized Mrs. Joyce Bawa Mogtari, former Deputy Transport Minister and now Presidential Advisor, for her instrumental role in its execution.

Mr. Mohamed Samara, CEO of Meridian Port Services, described the project as one of Ghana’s most successful public-private partnerships, praising the synergy between public and private stakeholders.

Transport Minister Joseph Bukari Nikpe commended MPS, GPHA, and all partners involved for delivering a world-class facility that will serve Ghana and the sub-region for decades.