The Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority has collaborated with HoneyWorld to advance and improve operations at the country’s ports and harbours through the successful launch of the RAM Containerised Bulk Handling (CBH) System at the Port of Tema.

The technology provides a more efficient way of loading bulk commodities, particularly shea nuts, directly from storage into vessels.

It uses specialised 20-foot Revolver Containers to transport cargo from warehouses to the quayside, where it is discharged directly into a vessel’s hatch.

Under the system, the containers are loaded and sealed at the warehouse before being transported to the port. A crane-mounted RAM Revolver then grips and lifts each container, opens its lid and rotates it 360 degrees to release the cargo into the vessel. The empty container is subsequently returned for reuse.

The new approach eliminates the traditional practice of discharging shea nuts onto the quay apron before loading them onto vessels using grabs.

That process often exposes the commodity to additional handling and increases the risk of spillage into the sea. By keeping the cargo enclosed until it is discharged into the vessel, the new system is expected to promote cleaner operations and better protect the quality of the commodity.

The introduction of the technology forms part of GPHA’s efforts to improve bulk cargo handling and promote more environmentally responsible port operations.

Speaking at the launch, the Director of Port, Tema, Tabon Zuma, said the system represented a shift from traditional to modern methods of handling shea nuts.

“Today, we have succeeded in changing the traditional form into the modern way of handling shea nuts,” he said.

He explained that because the cargo is discharged directly into vessels without being deposited on the quay apron, the dirty cargo charge associated with the traditional handling method does not apply.

He also noted that the use of sealed containers makes cargo diversion more difficult.

The system is supported by warehousing and road freight services, as well as equipment including reach stackers, payloaders, forklifts and a conveyor belt with weighing capabilities.

Its introduction is expected to provide bulk exporters with an additional cargo-handling option while supporting efforts to improve efficiency, reduce spillage and strengthen environmental protection at the Port of Tema.

MA