GMA urges support for implementation of Port Call Optimisation proposals at Tema Port
The Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting efficiency, innovation and digital transformation in Ghana’s maritime sector.
Speaking at the second Just-In-Time (JIT) Sailing/Port Call Optimisation Workshop at MPS Terminal 3, Deputy Director General of the GMA, Mubarick Masawudu, described the exercise as an innovation process aimed at improving efficiency across port operations.
Mr Masawudu welcomed the actionable proposals emerging from the workshop and emphasised the need for their effective implementation.
He also stressed the importance of establishing a Maritime Single Window to facilitate seamless electronic processing and information exchange among maritime stakeholders, noting that the GMA would pursue the necessary legislative instruments to support its successful implementation.
The workshop brought together key stakeholders, including the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), Ghana Revenue Authority – Customs Division, Port Health, Ghana Immigration Service, Meridian Port Services (MPS), and shipping lines and agents.
Discussions focused on addressing delays associated with Port Health processes, tug and pilot operations, berth allocation, customs clearance and documentation, vessel arrival and departure processes, with stakeholders identifying practical interventions to improve vessel turnaround time.
Director of Tema Port, Mr Tebon Zumah, also underscored the importance of embracing the transition towards green energy, stressing that no stakeholder should be left behind.
He noted that greater efficiency would be critical to keeping industry players competitive and sustainable.
He further stressed the need to apply the Just-In-Time sailing measures to the rest of the terminals at the Tema Port and to the Takoradi Port as well.
The workshop forms part of the IMO-GreenVoyage2050 Just-In-Time Sailing Project, which seeks to reduce avoidable vessel waiting time and advance a more efficient, digitally enabled and sustainable maritime sector in Ghana.
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