McDan Group and GPHA Partner to Develop Marine Transport and Logistics

McDan Group and the Ghana Ports and Harbors Authority (GPHA) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to collaborate on the development of national capabilities in marine transport and logistics.

The partnership aims to enhance domestic maritime infrastructure and boost Ghana’s economy.

Established in 1986, GPHA is responsible for the planning, development, and regulation of ports in Ghana.

McDan Group, an indigenous conglomerate, operates in various sectors, including shipping, freight forwarding, customs clearance, cargo and port handling, transportation, haulage, fixed-based operations, real estate, construction, civil engineering, agriculture, salt mining, and more.

ElectroChem Terminal Development

McDan Group plans to develop the “ElectroChem Terminal, Port of Ada” through a 30-year renewable lease for the Ghana Highway Authority’s ferry maintenance and operations terminal site in Ada. This project aims to streamline the management and export of bulk natural and processed salt, addressing the growing regional and global demand for salt.

Key Benefits of the Collaboration

• Improved Cargo Services Management: The collaboration is expected to enhance Ghana’s cargo services management capacity, reducing operational costs and bolstering socio-economic activities.
• Enhanced Salt Export: The planned ElectroChem Terminal will include essential facilities for bulk salt handling and processing, facilitating easier export to international markets.
• Economic Growth: The project is anticipated to create jobs, strengthen local economies, and foster sustainable growth in the region.

Project Details

• Feasibility Studies: The project will include feasibility studies to assess its technical, economic, and environmental viability.
• Infrastructure Development: Key components will involve constructing quay walls, storage facilities, and upgrading the road network connecting Ada to major highways.
• Joint Project Development Team: The MoU establishes a Joint Project Development Team to oversee technical meetings, stakeholder engagement, and the execution of various services agreements.  

Impact on Salt Production and Export

ElectroChem Ghana Limited, a McDan Group subsidiary, holds the largest salt mining concession in Africa, currently producing 650,000 tonnes annually with a production capacity exceeding 2 million tonnes. The development of the Ada port is expected to reduce Ghana’s salt import dependency and significantly enhance its export capabilities.

Future Development Plans

As the project progresses, McDan Group aims to build a state-of-the-art facility that includes warehouses, maintenance docks, and residential amenities, contributing to the overall development of the Ada community.