In a landmark moment for maritime trade in Africa, MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company has become the first shipping line to deploy mega-large container vessels with a capacity of 24,000 TEU on the continent. The arrival of the MSC DILETTA and MSC TÜRKIYE on the Africa Express service, connecting key regions from China and South Korea through Southeast Asia to Ghana, Togo, Côte d’Ivoire, and Cameroon, signals a significant leap in West Africa's port capabilities and holds the potential to positively alter the economic environment.  

The historic first call of these colossal vessels occurred in Lomé, Togo, on 23 April with the arrival of the MSC DILETTA. This event marks a turning point, ushering in an era of unprecedented shipping capacity for the region.

MSC believes the arrival of 24,000 TEU ultra-large container vessels on African shores marks not only a major milestone, but also reflects its dedication to strengthening trade, driving economic growth across West Africa, and supporting local communities.  

Driving force behind the mega ship deployment

Several key factors have driven MSC's strategic decision to deploy these 24,000 TEU vessels to West Africa:

• Surging Asia-West Africa trade: The volume of business and trade between Asia and Africa, particularly West Africa, is experiencing rapid growth. Deploying larger vessels allows MSC to efficiently cater to this increasing demand as we are Africa’s supply chain partner of choice.
• Meeting customer demand: MSC is directly responding to the growing needs of its customers for increased capacity and more efficient shipping solutions on this vital trade route.
• Commitment to Africa's economic development: This deployment underscores MSC's long-term commitment to supporting the economic development of Africa by providing the necessary infrastructure for enhanced trade and connectivity.

Unprecedented capacity and regional impact

The MSC DILETTA, has docked in Lomé, Togo, and Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, solidifying its status as one of the largest container ships ever to call at a West African port. The MSC TÜRKIYE, a formidable 400 meters in length, played a crucial role in positioning the ports of Tema, Ghana and Kribi, Cameroon  as a major transshipment and strategic trade hub along the West African coast. With a draft of 16 meters and a beam of 61 meters, this vessel represents a new scale for maritime operations in Sub-Saharan Africa.

The arrival of these ultra-large container vessels (ULCVs) signifies more than just increased shipping capacity. It has the potential to:  

• Boost trade volumes: Increased capacity can facilitate greater import and export activity, fostering economic growth.
• Enhance port infrastructure development: The need to accommodate these mega ships will likely spur further investment and development in port infrastructure across West Africa.
• Improve efficiency: Handling larger volumes in single voyages can streamline logistics and reduce transit times.  

MSC's bold move to deploy these 24,000 TEU vessels marks a new chapter for West African trade. As these giants of the sea become a regular presence, the region stands poised to experience a significant transformation in its economic landscape, unlocking new opportunities for growth and development.