Pacific Int’l Lines expands investment in Africa, deploys eco-friendly vessel to Ghana

Thirty percent of Pacific International Lines’ (PIL) global cargo is bound for Africa—a figure the Singapore-based shipping giant says reflects its deep trade ties with the continent. To strengthen this position, PIL has announced fresh investments in high-quality, environmentally friendly vessels for African routes, including Ghana.

At a ceremony in Tema to unveil its new eco-friendly vessel, Kota Odyssey, PIL Chief Executive Officer Lars Kastrup revealed that more ships of this kind will be deployed to Ghana in the coming years.

“PIL has been serving Africa since the 1970s. Today, we operate in over 30 African countries, offering seven weekly services and a feeder network connecting more than 40 ports. Africa is a very strategic market for PIL—30% of our transport from Asia is destined here,” Kastrup said.

He added that the Kota Odyssey is part of PIL’s flagship Southwest Africa service, linking China, Singapore, Ghana, Togo, Nigeria, and Côte d’Ivoire. “To maintain a weekly service, we need 12 vessels of this type. We currently have several in operation and more on the way. This ongoing investment ensures a sustainable and reliable service to West Africa.”

Meridian Port Services (MPS) CEO Mohammed Samara highlighted the company’s commitment to digital innovation, enabling seamless cargo tracking and customs integration.

“We have achieved 100% digital penetration across all stakeholders—shipping lines, clearing agents, consignees, and shippers. Real-time tracking means containers can be monitored at any stage. Our systems are fully integrated with customs, allowing instant verification of container details through automated scanning,” Samara explained.

Ghana’s Minister of Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, linked the expansion of maritime services to the government’s “24-hour economy” initiative, aimed at boosting youth employment.

“Maritime services are central to our 24-hour economy vision, enabling a three-shift system that creates more jobs for our young people. We are committed to providing world-class facilities and services to meet the needs of international shipping lines,” he said.

Vice President of Ghana, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, described the arrival of Kota Odyssey as a milestone for regional trade.

“The deployment of this state-of-the-art vessel strengthens our trade links with Asia and across West Africa. Built in 15 months, it runs on cleaner fuel and advanced technology—aligning perfectly with Ghana’s commitment to sustainability and efficiency,” she noted.