Port of Tema Dismisses Strike Claims: Operational Continuity Confirmed

Introduction

The Port of Tema, Ghana’s premier maritime hub, has issued a formal rebuttal regarding circulating rumors of industrial action and operational standstills. On December 31, 2025, management released a statement clarifying that the port remains fully operational, efficient, and open for business. This response addresses allegations from the Food and Beverages Association of Ghana (FABAG) suggesting that labor unrest could lead to shipment diversions. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the situation, detailing the misunderstanding surrounding the implementation of a new 24-hour shift system and reaffirming the port’s commitment to national economic goals.

Key Points

Background

The Port of Tema serves as a critical gateway for trade in Ghana and the West African sub-region. Recently, the port has been aligning its operations with the national “24-Hour Economy” policy championed by the presidency. This initiative aims to boost economic activity by ensuring round-the-clock operations in key sectors, including maritime logistics.

To achieve this, port management introduced a structured 24-hour shift system for dock labor. Under this arrangement, the traditional working day is divided into three eight-hour shifts. This allows three employees to rotate around a single role over a 24-hour period. The primary objectives of this restructuring are to enhance operational efficiency, reduce cargo turnaround time, and generate additional employment opportunities.

Despite the strategic intent, the transition sparked a misunderstanding among a segment of the workforce. This led to reports suggesting a major labor dispute, prompting the Food and Beverages Association of Ghana (FABAG) to issue a warning about potential disruptions and the diversion of cargo to neighboring ports in Togo or Côte d’Ivoire. The Port of Tema management’s subsequent press statement serves to correct the record and reassure stakeholders of the port’s stability.

Analysis

Addressing the Misinformation

The core of the recent controversy lies in the distinction between a minor labor misunderstanding and a full-scale industrial strike. The Port of Tema management explicitly stated that the events of late December 2025 did not constitute a strike action. The “confrontation” described was limited to a specific group of employees within the dock labor force. The issue arose when some workers expressed a preference to work all three shifts consecutively rather than adhering to the new rotational schedule.

From an operational perspective, the port’s ability to resolve this issue “amicably and within a short period” demonstrates robust management protocols and open communication channels. The prompt resolution ensured that there was no shutdown of port activities and that cargo discharge and loading continued without interruption. This resilience is vital for maintaining Ghana’s reputation as a reliable trade partner.

Alignment with National Economic Policy

The implementation of the 24-hour shift system is not merely an internal administrative change; it is a strategic move to operationalize the 24-Hour Economy policy. By ensuring that the port functions continuously, Ghana aims to reduce congestion, lower the cost of doing business, and attract more shipping lines. The new shift structure provides dockworkers with improved remuneration and guarantees two rest days per week, aligning with international labor standards and best practices in occupational health and safety.

However, the reaction from the Food and Beverages Association of Ghana (FABAG) highlights the sensitivity of the supply chain. Importers are acutely aware that even minor delays at the port can have cascading effects on inventory and pricing. While the Port of Tema has assured stakeholders that operations are “solid, efficient, and uninterrupted,” the incident underscores the importance of transparent communication between port management, labor unions, and the business community.

Practical Advice

For Importers and Stakeholders

In light of the clarified operational status, stakeholders should continue to rely on official communication channels for updates regarding port activities. To mitigate risks associated with misinformation:

• Verify Sources: Always cross-reference news about labor actions with official statements from the Port of Tema or the Ghana Shippers Authority.
• Plan Logistics: While the port is fully operational, the transition to a 24-hour shift system may require coordination with clearing agents to take advantage of night shifts.
• Engage Early: Maintain open lines of communication with port authorities to stay ahead of any procedural changes.

For Port Management and Policy Makers

To prevent future misunderstandings regarding the 24-hour economy implementation:

• Enhanced Sensitization: Conduct continuous education programs for dockworkers explaining the benefits and mechanics of the rotational shift system.
• Stakeholder Forums: Regularly convene meetings with associations like FABAG to provide real-time updates on operational status, preempting alarmist reports.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Port of Tema remains the backbone of Ghana’s maritime trade, fully operational and aligned with the national 24-Hour Economy policy. While a minor misunderstanding regarding shift rotations occurred, it was swiftly resolved through dialogue, proving the port’s resilience and commitment to service excellence. Stakeholders can be confident in the port’s ability to handle cargo efficiently and without interruption, ensuring that Ghana’s trade and industrial needs are met.