The Management of Takoradi branch of the Ports and Harbour Authority has hailed the introduction of oil and gas exploration as a “blessing” to the port, citing a significant increase in offshore vessels since its inception.
They say the surge in vessel traffic has boosted revenue and economic activity at the port.
However, to further optimize operations, the Management is advocating the relocation of oil and gas services from the Western Naval Command to the port.
According to them, this strategic move leverages the port’s prime location and infrastructure, positioning it to more effectively handle oil and gas operations and consolidate its role as a key hub in Ghana’s oil and gas industry.
The Takoradi port has a rich history, dating back to 1928 when it was commissioned for business to facilitate Ghana’s international trade. It’s strategically located, making it an ideal route for trade with Europe, America, and Asia.
The port serves as a key export hub for Ghana, handling around 65% of the country’s total exports, with major commodities including cocoa, timber, bauxite, and manganese.
In recent years, the port has undergone significant developments, including a $250 million expansion project announced in 2004. The. Port, which started with only Bulk Section has now opened up to additional two other sections including container/Multi Purpose section and Oil and Gas section.
According the Management, the inclusion of oil and gas services has been a game-changer for the Takoradi Port. Addressing the Western Regional Minister during his familiarization visit, Deputy Marketing and Public Affairs Manager, Eliasu Danitie Umaru, revealed that the port has seen a significant increase in vessel traffic and has attracted more companies to the port enclave which generates revenue for the government through the port.
“The increased number of vessels calling at our port has resulted in higher vessel costs, which in turn have generated significant revenue. Moreover, the growth in maritime traffic has attracted several companies to our port, which are now renting space and providing logistical support to major oil and gas players like Tullow and ENI”.
“These companies are generating substantial revenue for the Ghanaian government through the Takoradi Port Authority. In our experience, the oil and gas industry has been a blessing, contrary to the common narrative that it is a curse. The sector has brought numerous economic benefits and opportunities to our region,” Mr Umaru said.
He highlighted some major challenges facing the port and urged the Minerals Commission to reconsider its policy banning the delivery of explosives after 6:00pm.
Umaru appealed to the Regional Minister to facilitate the relocation of Oil and Gas services from the Western Naval Command to the Takoradi Port.
He emphasized that the port is now equipped to handle such activities, having undergone significant upgrades and expansions in recent years
“We currently have oil majors like Tullow operating from the Naval Base. However, their offshore supply vessels should ideally be utilizing the commercial port of Takoradi, which is the legitimate and designated facility for such activities”.
“The Naval Base is a security port, and their presence there is a temporary arrangement that dates back to the early days of our operations when we needed time to construct dedicated berths and other infrastructure”.
“Now that we have the necessary facilities in place, I kindly request your support in relocating these operations to the commercial port of Takoradi, which is the rightful place for them to operate.”
The Western Regional Minister Joseph Nelson commended the Takoradi Port for its efforts in creating jobs and boosting revenue. He acknowledged the significant role port operations play in expanding job opportunities and enhancing activities along the value chain
Minister Nelson pledged government support to help the port overcome its challenges. “As Regional Minister, you have my support, and we will see how to get that done together to solve some of the challenges you have highlighted. It is important that this port continues to grow both for industries and job creation.”
“I’m very much committed to seeing progress, I’ll be interested any day to see how these challenges are solved to make positive steps,” he assured.
The Minister also visited Takoradi Flour Mills and GHACEM to have firsthand knowledge of their operations.
By Ebenezer Atiemo
The post Takoradi Port managers court Regional Minister’s support to relocate oil and gas services from Naval base first appeared on 3News.
Read Full Story
Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest
Instagram
Google+
YouTube
LinkedIn
RSS