Historic Arrival of MV CBS Years at Port of Takoradi

Takoradi is poised to make history in West Africa’s maritime sector with the arrival of the MV CBS Years, the largest bulk carrier ever to dock at a port in the region. Scheduled for January 27, 2026, this monumental event will be celebrated with an inauguration and welcome ceremony organized by the Ghana Manganese Company (GMC), in partnership with Cosco Shipping Lines and the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA). The MV CBS Years boasts a deadweight tonnage (DWT) of 300,000, marking a significant milestone for both GMC and Ghana’s maritime industry.

The arrival of this massive vessel is expected to position the Port of Takoradi as a strategic hub capable of accommodating cape-size vessels, which are among the largest in the shipping industry. This event not only highlights the port’s capabilities but also represents a turning point for GMC, which aims to achieve 10 million tonnes in exports by 2026. The increased bulk export shipments through Takoradi are anticipated to boost export revenues for GPHA and enhance foreign exchange earnings for Ghana.

Preparations and Safety Measures for a Smooth Berthing

In anticipation of the MV CBS Years‘ arrival, GMC has implemented extensive technical and safety measures to ensure secure berthing and cargo operations. Selected marine operations staff from GPHA, including pilots, were sponsored to undergo advanced training in China. This training involved simulation exercises designed to replicate the hydrodynamic and navigational conditions associated with managing cape-size vessels. Such preparations are crucial for ensuring that Ghanaian pilots can safely command the vessel upon its arrival.

Additionally, GPHA has developed a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to guide the handling of the MV CBS Years while it is in port. To further enhance safety, GMC and GPHA engaged a third-party firm to conduct a detailed risk assessment. This assessment included digital simulations of berthing and unberthing maneuvers, complemented by real-time Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) surveillance to monitor operations.

The inauguration ceremony is expected to attract a wide array of attendees, including senior government officials, industry leaders, international shipping partners, and key stakeholders from the maritime, mining, and logistics sectors. Organizers emphasize that the event will not only celebrate this historic milestone but also showcase Ghana’s growing capacity in infrastructure development, professional competence, and cross-sector collaboration.

Historic Arrival of MV CBS Years Marks Milestone for Ghana’s Maritime Industry

GMC has reiterated its commitment to supporting sustainable national economic growth. The successful handling of the MV CBS Years is seen as a testament to the company’s role in enhancing Ghana’s export-led development agenda and improving the global competitiveness of the country’s ports. The arrival of this vessel is viewed as a strong endorsement of Ghana’s port infrastructure and operational readiness, solidifying Takoradi’s status as a vital gateway for bulk exports in West Africa.