Ghana’s maritime industry is set to make history on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, as the largest bulk carrier ever to call at a port in West Africa, the MV CBS Years, arrives at the Port of Takoradi.

The historic vessel, with a massive carrying capacity of 300,000 deadweight tonnes (DWT), will be formally welcomed at an inauguration ceremony jointly organised by the Ghana Manganese Company (GMC), Cosco Shipping Lines, and the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA).

The arrival of the MV CBS Years marks a significant business milestone for Ghana Manganese Company, aligning with its ambitious one-million-tonne export target for 2026. Industry analysts say the development is expected to significantly boost bulk export volumes through the Takoradi Port, with positive implications for export revenue mobilisation for GPHA and Ghana’s broader economy.

Extensive Preparations Ahead of Historic Arrival

In the lead-up to the vessel’s arrival, GMC, in collaboration with GPHA, undertook extensive technical and operational preparations to ensure safe and efficient berthing and cargo operations.

As part of these measures, selected GPHA marine operations staff, including pilots, were sponsored to China to participate in advanced simulation and berthing exercises. The training was designed to replicate the hydrodynamic and navigational requirements of cape-size vessels, ensuring safe, predictable and controlled berthing and loading operations under local command.

Additionally, the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority developed a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to guide the vessel’s operations at the Takoradi Port.

To further enhance safety, GMC and GPHA engaged a third-party risk assessment firm to conduct digital simulation of berthing and unberthing manoeuvres. The operation will also feature real-time UAV surveillance to monitor vessel movement and ensure adherence to safety protocols.

A Landmark Moment for Ghana’s Maritime Sector

The inauguration and welcome ceremony is expected to attract senior government officials, industry leaders, international shipping partners, and key stakeholders from across the maritime and logistics value chain.

Organisers say the event will not only celebrate a historic maritime achievement but also demonstrate Ghana’s growing capacity in port infrastructure development, professional competence, cross-sector collaboration, skills transfer, and its commitment to the long-term growth of maritime trade.

The arrival of the MV CBS Years underscores Ghana’s expanding role as a competitive maritime hub in West Africa and its contribution to sustainable national economic growth.