The interests of the Group are provided by UMARCO which
operates both as a consigning agent and a handler. Managed by Roy Chalkley,
the agency has 25 employees.
Monrovia
Port Information
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Port Infrastructure
Liberia has four main ports: Monrovia, Buchanan,
Greenville, and Harper. However, of these four, only Monrovia has the handling
facilities necessary for commercial usage. Buchanan, Greenville and Harper
ports are being used primarily for the logging trade.
Monrovia is Liberia's largest city and its administrative, commercial,
communications, and financial centre. The city's economy revolves around its
harbour, which
was substantially improved by U.S. forces under lend-lease during World War
II. In 1948 the first port capable of handling ocean-going vessels was opened;
there are now several ports, including a free port. Main imports include building
materials, general cargo and petroleum and exports cover bulk latex, cocoa,
coffee, crude rubber, iron ore and timber. Manufactures include cement, refined
petroleum, food products, bricks and tiles, furniture, and pharmaceuticals.
Roads and an airport connect Monrovia with Liberia's interior.
Monrovia calls were added to the OTAL schedule in
March 1997 after being absent from our sailing schedule for seven years. The
service was withdrawn because of the volatile political climate that enveloped
Liberia during the years of civil unrest. Over 150,000 people are said to have
been killed and a third of the country's 2.9 million population displaced.
The political atmosphere in Liberia has stabilised and new business opportunities
are emerging. A peace accord has been signed.
OTAL believes transport operators should be at the forefront
of the restoration process, helping with the developments in this tragically
war-torn area. Initial
lifting's were modest, but greater quantities of cargo are beginning to flow
both in and out of the country. OTAL serves Monrovia every 14
days on the Angola Shuttle Service.
Monrovia is an artificial harbour protected by two rock breakwaters
extending 1.25 miles into the sea ensuring 750 acres of protected water. There
is one turning basin with a depth of approximately 9.15m.
Monrovia port enjoys Freeport status. In the free zone cargo can be stored
in transit, free of duty, pending re-export to other West African states.
Monrovia Freeport has four piers and one main wharf. Three of
the wharf's four berths are operational, while the capsized vessel Torm Alexandra
[a 4,160
ton vessel capsized since 25 July 2001] occupies the fourth.
General cargo wharf: Four berths for general cargo. Containers
handled at the general cargo berths. Equipment includes top loaders.
A concrete based container storage area and provision for reefer containers
[but not connected to electricity to date] Poor cargo handling equipment, max
lift 50t. Width of wharf 1 0.97m with a concrete deck 14 tanks for bulk latex
with a capacity of 2500T. 8 transit warehouses totaling 10000sq m
Tanker facilities: Length of tankers for crude oil discharge are limited to
198.1m long and 13.71m deep. At present tankers with crude oil for discharge
moor with two bow anchors and lie alongside a breasting dolphin with stem moored
to a shore dolphin. One tanker berth is open for discharge and and bunkering
but is limited to 213.4m length and 10.06m depth.
Fishery pier: Situated on the Northern breakwater for vessels up to 73.14m
long. Cold storage is available.
Transport News
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Major Road Rehabilitation Kicks Off In Monrovia President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has broken grounds for the start of major road
rehabilitation works in the country. The exercise will not be limited to
Monrovia alone but extended to rural Liberia, especially in the Southeast,
where roads in that part of the country are in a deplorable state due to
lack of maintenance over the years. Phase-one of the general rehabilitation
of roads will cost US$23.38 million. Phase-two, is estimated at more than
US$25-million. The amount is being solicited from the country's development
partners.
Areas to benefit from the first phase of the road construction and rehabilitation
include Greater Monrovia; Freeport to Red Light, Somalia Drive, ELWA Junction
to Roberts International Airport. Phase-2 will cover Cotton-Tree in Margibi
County to Buchanan, Grand Bassa County, Caldwell and Careysburg. The road project
is being undertaken by a Chinese Construction company, Chinese Highway International
Corporation [CHICO]. The President also lauded those who contributed towards
the successful completion of the US$1.5 million Jallah Town road project. [TA
18/11/07]
Mittal Chairman Visits Liberia: Buchanan Port
The Chairman of Arcelor Mittal Steel is visiting Liberia to hold discussions
with President Johnson Sirleaf centering on strengthening the partnership
between Arcelor Mittal Steel and Liberia. The visit is the first since the
company and Government concluded negotiations and subsequently signed a concession
agreement for the company to invest in the country. Under the agreement,
Arcelor Mittal, which is the world's largest steel company will invest nearly
US$1billion in Liberia. The Chairman is due to visit the Port of Buchanan
which will serve as the point of iron ore export. [12/12/07]
Maritime Signs Accord for MRCC
Liberia has again made progress to improve her maritime development program
by signing a multilateral agreement for the establishment of the Maritime
Rescue Coordinating Center [MRCC]. The agreement brought together representatives
from Ghana, Ivory Coast, Sierra Leone and Guinea; as well as the International
Maritime Organization, [IMO]. According to Commissioner of the Bureau of
Maritime, John Morlu, the center is expected to cover the 4 countries; as
per the outcome of the Florence Diplomatic Conference on Search and Rescue
and the Global Maritime Distress & Safety System [GMDSS]. [TI 12/11/07]
Stevedores Threaten Withdrawal From Seamen Union
Leadership crisis within the United Seamen Port and General Workers Union of
Liberia [USPGWUL] has deepened with its Stevedore section threatening to
pull out of the Union. The President of USPGWUL, Nimely Davies said that
they were withdrawing from the Union as a protest against ongoing lawlessness
and violence, among others overshadowing the Union. Davis also disclosed
that Alfred Thomas has been voted out of offices as president of the Seafarers
section of USPGWUL several months ago for poor leadership ability. [TA 11/11/07]
Nigeria Offers $13 Mln Debt Relief
Nigeria has proposed writing off US$13 million out of US$48 million it is owed
by Liberia as a contribution to consolidating peace there. President Umaru
Yar'Adua said Liberia's US$4.5 billion debt burden was an obstacle to economic
recovery. [Reuters 20/11/07]
IMF Ready To Proceed With Liberia Loan Talks
Liberia could be cleared for an IMF lending program by early next year, the
first since 1984. The country was cleared for debt relief on 12/11/07 after
IMF member countries finally agreed, after delays of more than a year, on
how to fund the debt cancellation. The agreement opens the way for Liberia
to enter the global debt relief program, known as the Heavily Indebted Poor
Countries Initiative, managed by the World Bank and IMF. It will put Liberia
in a position that will allow other creditors to start financing the country.
Pre-Shipment Bidding
Following a bidding exercise the Ministry of Finance has announced that four
companies have been short-listed to take over the pre-shipment exercise for
goods coming into Liberia. After a 3-week review of their submissions, COTCNA,
SGS, BIVAC, and INTERTEK have qualified. In order to win the bid they will
submit technical and financial proposals in sealed envelopes. However some
concerned business people have noted that this process should be open and
transparent and seek the involvement of the public to ensure that only a
company with sound record be selected. [TI 23/10/07]
China Eyes Costal Areas for Roads
The newly accredited Chinese envoy to Liberia, Zhou Yuxiao has expressed the
need to develop the coastal territorial road network of Liberia to facilitate
trade. The Chinese envoy disclosed that the Chinese government brought 1000
pieces of heavy equipment to begin the road rehabilitation of the Buchanan
Highway amongst others. [TI 26/10/07]
Liberia Presses for World Trade Membership
The World Trade Organization (WTO), in collaboration with the Liberian government
kick started the campaign to join the organisation with a 2-day sensitization
workshop.
It will take at least five years for Liberia to obtain its membership into
the WTO and then only if the necessary requirements are met by the government.
Benefits would include enhancing the exportation of locally produced products,
expansion of domestic industries and promote Liberia’s economic growth
and development. [TN 23/10/07]
South Africa Trade Delegation Visits
A South African delegation led by Mrs. Hester Obisi, Director of Trade and
Industry in South Africa, are in Liberia on a fact-finding mission on international
trade and economic development. [TI 30/10/07]
Mittal Enters US$21M Deal For Port, Railway, Mines
Engineering
Global steel giant, ArcelorMittal [www.arcelormittal.com], has signed on 09/10/07
a US$21 million contract with Odebrecht, an American-Canadian-Brazilian firm
for engineering and project management for survey and consultancy services
on the reconstruction of Buchanan Port, a 300-km railway and mines in Yekepa.
Odebrecht, is expected to undertake a comprehensive survey of the port as
well as a full inspection of every meter of the railway. In February 2008,
an aerial-laser survey would be carried out on the mines to determine the amount
of ore they contain before work can start. A three-man team recently held a
meeting with President Johnson-Sirleaf, presenting her with a 27-page document
on the project. The ArcelorMittal executives are expected to return next month
to ascertain progress on the project. [DO 10/10/07]
Refurbished Tugboat On Loan to NPA
According to NPA Manager George Tubman arrangements have been made between
the NPA and a Ghanaian company to provide a refurbished tugboat to be used
at the Monrovia Freeport until final arrangements are concluded for the purchase
of such a vessel. [DO 26/09/07]
President Sirleaf Meets With Management of the NPA
President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and the NPA have met to exchange ideas geared
towards facilitating the timely clearance of goods from the Freeport of Monrovia.
Managing Director, George Tubman, assured that his Management will put in
place measures to address past bottlenecks. Tubman also acknowledged the
long stay of containers in the Port prior to clearance by owners and expressed
the hope that solutions can be found to the problem. [Liberian Government
18/09/07]
NPA Invited to Belgium
PIMEX Group and partner, Catracom have requested that the NPA visit the Port
of Antwerp, Belgium to inspect and select cargo handling equipment desperately
needed to improve cargo handling at Monrovia port. PIMEX Consultant Antoine
Boulos has been visiting Liberia to conduct needs assessment for cargo handling
services ahead of a final decision on a bid for the NPA Equipment Lease Contract.
The deal allows for joint management and operation of handling equipment.
Catracom presently operates equipment at Abidjan and Luanda ports. [TI 24/09/07]
Mittal Enters US$21M Deal For Port, Railway, Mines
Engineering
Global steel giant, ArcelorMittal [www.arcelormittal.com], has signed on 09/10/07
a US$21 million contract with Odebrecht, an American-Canadian-Brazilian firm
for engineering and project management for survey and consultancy services
on the reconstruction of Buchanan Port, a 300-km railway and mines in Yekepa.
Odebrecht, is expected to undertake a comprehensive survey of the port as
well as a full inspection of every meter of the railway. In February 2008,
an aerial-laser survey would be carried out on the mines to determine the amount
of ore they contain before work can start. A three-man team recently held a
meeting with President Johnson-Sirleaf, presenting her with a 27-page document
on the project. The ArcelorMittal executives are expected to return next month
to ascertain progress on the project. [DO 10/10/07]
Refurbished Tugboat On Loan to NPA
According to NPA Manager George Tubman arrangements have been made between
the NPA and a Ghanaian company to provide a refurbished tugboat to be used
at the Monrovia Freeport until final arrangements are concluded for the purchase
of such a vessel. [DO 26/09/07]
President Sirleaf Meets With Management of the NPA
President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and the NPA have met to exchange ideas geared
towards facilitating the timely clearance of goods from the Freeport of Monrovia.
Managing Director, George Tubman, assured that his Management will put in
place measures to address past bottlenecks. Tubman also acknowledged the
long stay of containers in the Port prior to clearance by owners and expressed
the hope that solutions can be found to the problem. [Liberian Government
18/09/07]
NPA Invited to Belgium
PIMEX Group and partner, Catracom have requested that the NPA visit the Port
of Antwerp, Belgium to inspect and select cargo handling equipment desperately
needed to improve cargo handling at Monrovia port. PIMEX Consultant Antoine
Boulos has been visiting Liberia to conduct needs assessment for cargo handling
services ahead of a final decision on a bid for the NPA Equipment Lease Contract.
The deal allows for joint management and operation of handling equipment.
Catracom presently operates equipment at Abidjan and Luanda ports. [TI 24/09/07]
Storage Facility Dedicated at Freeport
President Johnson-Sirleaf marked the opening of a new 56,000m2 storage facility
in Monrovia port on 10/09/07. According to National Port Authority [NPA]
Managing Director, George Tubman, the warehouse is not limited to any group
of business. [TI 11/09/07]
Delta Impex Begins Removing Sinking Vessel
Delta Impex Incorporated is making last minute preparations to remove the
MV Tom Alexandra which sunk at the Freeport of Monrovia on 25/07/00. The
company
has reportedly started to fill the vessel with air bags attached to high
voltage air compressors that will expand the bags to enable the vessel
to float. [TI 06/09/07]
Port Gets New Chairman
Dr William Allen has been appointed as the new Chairman of the Board of Directors
for the National Port Authority [NPA] of Liberia. [TI 06/09/07]
BIVAC Unveils Office At Freeport
Bureau Veritas [BIVAC] has unveiled an office for the Customs and Excise Service
at the Freeport of Monrovia. Deputy MD for BIVAC, Henry Bernard, announced
that the US$25,000 office, built to accommodate their partners in the same
compound, is hoped to enhance a smooth working relationship between BIVAC
and the inspection of goods and collection of revenues in the country. [TI
27/08/07]
Peacekeepers Rebuild Key Bridge Damaged By Heavy Rains
Peacekeepers serving with the UN Mission in Liberia [UNMIL] have rebuilt a
key bridge linking the capital, Monrovia, with the western part of the country
and neighbouring Sierra Leone that recently collapsed, leaving thousands
of commuters stranded. The Kiakpu River Bridge, which is about 15km west
of Monrovia, is a vital route used for travel and commerce by both Liberians
and Sierra Leoneans. [UN 31/08/07]
World Bank Gives US$37 Million For Old Bridge
As part of efforts to rejuvenate the infrastructural and agricultural capacity
in Liberia, the World Bank, in partnership with Liberia, has signed a US$37million
Agriculture and Infrastructure Development Project [AIDP] funded through
the International Development Association [IDA]. The AIDP will include the
refurbishing of the Gabriel Tucker Bridge, commonly known as "The Old
Bridge" as well as rehabilitation and construction of several major
bridges on principal road corridors; while funds will be made available for
maintenance of roads currently under emergency repairs. According to Liberian
Finance Minister, Antoinette Sayeh the project will also focus on managerial
reform of the National Port Authority [NPA]. [TI 22/08/07]
Liberia - Container Scanning Program 13/09/07 The Liberian Ministry of Finance have announced the implementation
of the Container Scanning Program starting from the 13th of September 2007.
Click here for
full details.
Liberia Receives a Grant for Infrastructure Development:
Monrovia Port
The World Bank has approved an International Development Association [IDA]
grant of US$37 million to support the Government of Liberia’s efforts
in re-establishing basic infrastructure and reviving agricultural activities.
The ‘Agriculture and Infrastructure Development Project’ will support
the Government with a management contract for operation of the Port of Monrovia
and complementary advisory services to undertake a reform of the port sector.
It will also fund technical assistance to other entities of the Government
responsible for transport and infrastructure.
The project will also fund the reconstruction of the oil jetty in the Port
of Monrovia, the rehabilitation and construction of several major bridges on
principal road corridors, including the collapsed Vai City Bridge in Monrovia,
and on a number of smaller river crossings nationwide. Funds will also be made
available for maintenance of roads currently under emergency repairs. [WB 31/07/07]
Official Notice On Vessel Reception & Cargo Operation
- Monrovia Port Authority
National Port Authority - Freeport of Monrovia
Memorandum -11/08/07
The management of the national port authority has taken cognizance of the deplorable
condition of essential port infrastructures and is taking the appropriate steps
to reinstate the facilities to desirable levels and thereby boost performance.
In this connection, the following procedures shall be adhered to as regards
vessel reception and cargo operation:
A. The Marginal Wharf [Main Pier]
·
In order to reduce the risk of calamities, all unsafe areas on the marginal
quay have been properly marked and demarcated using heavy duty tires painted
green and white. All moving equipment in the port are to take note and operate
accordingly.
·
The structural condition of the marginal wharf has deteriorated significantly
due to lack of maintenance since its commissioning in 1948 and worsened by
the 14 years of civil crisis. While the repairs and/or the replacement of the
wharf is being planned, the following procedures shall strictly be followed
during cargo operation:
1. During container operation from ship to stacking area and visa versa container
trailers shall be deployed according to the number of hooks in use.
2. For the discharge of general cargo, especially rice, trucks shall be allowed
on the pier also only as the number of hooks declared. Trucks that are not
deployed shall stay 40feet away from the main quay.
3. No unnecessary heavy lift shall be placed on the quay unless in such case
that said heavy lift is essential to the on-going vessel and/or cargo operation
and such case must be brought to the attention of the Port/Operations Manager
before discharge.
4. Empty containers awaiting evacuation shall be stacked per agency and 10
feet away from the quay.
B. Noting that releasing of cargo to consignees constitutes an important requirement
for the over-all
effective port performance, the following shall be strictly followed:
1. Reefer containers and all other containers conveying perishable cargo, shall
be given priority in the loading park. Said containers shall be loaded and
allowed to leave port up to 5.45pm daily Monday thru Saturday and Sunday when
authorized by the Port Manager.
2. All non risk containers as shall be determined by the Bureau of Customs
Freeport Collectorate shall also be allowed to leave the port up to 5.00pm
daily.
3. All other containers which shall require customs escort shall leave the
port not later than 4.00pm daily. All risk and non-risk containers shall be
distinguished from time to time by the Bureau of Customs.
4. All general cargoes [rice, vehicles and assorted commodities] shall be allowed
to leave the port daily up to 5.00pm.
5. All trucks and container carriers directly conveying frozen products from
reefer vessels shall be alloed to exit not later than 6.00pm during operation.
Any violation of the above Standard Operating Procedures [SOP} will expose
the doer to the Port regulations being invoked against
Meanwhile all port users are to strictly adhere to Access Control Procedures
as well as other security measures instituted to ensure a safe environment.
These operational procedures shall be adjusted and improved upon consistent
with changing realities.
From: Othello Tarbah - Acting Operations Manager
President Puts National Police Boss On Probation Port Clashes
President Sirleaf has placed Police Inspector General, Madam Beatrice Munah
Sieh on a three-month probation, in relation with the 9 July violent clash
between the national police and the seaport police at the Monrovia Port.
The President overturned the Boima Fahnbulleh Committee recommendation, set
up to investigate the matter, to dismiss the police inspector general for “professional
misconduct”. In her six-count decision following the thorough study
of the Fahnbulleh report, the Liberian leader directed that the Port Authority
and the police to investigate the level of injury sustained and property
damaged during the incident for “an appropriate level of compensation”.
[APA 10/08/07]
Public Works: Road Construction
Road construction and rehabilitation is expected to begin in Monrovia and parts
of rural Liberia during the dry season. Most of the road networks have been
in deplorable condition following the 14-year devastating civil war. The
entities responsible are the Ministry of Public Works [MPW] and the China
Henan International Corporation Group of Companies Limited [CHICO]. CHICO
is a World Bank sponsored project with a strong team of consultants. [TI
03/07/08]
Clashes At Monrovia Port
Liberian National Police clashed with seaport police at Monrovia port placing
dozens in hospital on 09/07/07. The clash was over an investigation of fuel
theft. The fighting was quelled by UN troops. Calm has returned and normal
activities have resumed. Meanwhile the Liberian government has set up a Board
of Inquiry to investigate the violence apportioned the greatest responsibility
for the violence on the national police and has recommended the dismissal
of the Inspector-General of Police, Beatrice Munah Sieh. [BBC 09/07/07 /
APA 17/07/07]
Port Road To Be Rehabilitated
The Minister of Public Works, Louseni Donzo has disclosed that the freeway
from the Freeport of Monrovia to the Red Light commercial centre on the outskirts
of Monrovia is to be rehabilitated. Major reconstruction of nationwide roads
is expected to kick off during the dry season, facilitated by Chico Construction
a Chinese firm as part of a World Bank initiative. [TI 28/06/07]
Another Container Saga Hits Freeport
The National Port Authority [NPA] has again fallen prey to criminals who continue
to overlook the security operations at the Freeport of Monrovia. According
to the National Port Authority officials, on 25 June 3 containers were broken
into. An immediate investigation was launched. [TI 27/06/07]
Monrovia Port Dredging
The government of Liberia has entered into an agreement with Dredging International
to dredge the main entrance of Monrovia port. The company is currently in
the country and are expected to remain for 2 months with works expected to
commence mid May 2007. In November 2006 the World Bank approved a US$8.5
million grant to the Government of Liberia to support its infrastructural
regeneration programs over a 4 years period. One critical area needing urgent
rehabilitation was the Port of Monrovia including a dredging program.
Limited Equipment Stall Freeport Operations / Overnight
Fees
The problem of limited equipment continues to slow down daily operations at
the Freeport of Monrovia. The container park is over crowded with containers
that can not be transported out of the port due to lack of machines and of
the reported 3 units that do work these often mal-function.
Brokers stress that due to lack of equipment containers often remain overnight
in the port and become liable for "Over Night" fees put into place
by the port management. They claimed they pay US$21.50 for “their containers
to sleep at the port”. Operations cease at 1600hrs.
Meanwhile, the brokers are appealing to the management of the port to either
remove or reduce the "over-night fee" and bring in "a good company" that
will provide good services to speed operations at the port. [TA 03/05/07]
Liberia Assembly Ratifies US$1 Bln Mittal Iron Deal/Retains Port Control
According to Mines Minister Eugene Shannon, Liberia's parliament has ratified
a US$1 billion iron ore mining project signed with the world's largest steel
producer Arcelor Mittal. President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf last year renegotiated
an agreement signed in 2005 by an unelected interim government, boosting
the state's interest in the deal and raising the investment from $900 million.
The revisions to the deal ensure the Liberian state would retain control
of its main port of Buchanan and a railway serving the mine, both of which
had been awarded to the steelmaker under the original agreement. [Reuters
24/04/07]
UNHCR Reconstructs Highways in Lofa County
The UNHCR and the Government are to reconditioned the Voinjama, Kolahun and
Foya highways in Lofa County, with support of the World Bank, UNMIL and the
Swiss government. The Swiss Development Corporation (SDC), has engaged the
services of SSF Entrepreneur, Inc. [TA 09/05/07]
Road Maintenance Equipment Arrives
The Ministry of Public Works is rehabilitating a number of roads in the county
including a major road linking Barclayville to Pleebo and has announced the
arrival of road maintenance equipment in the country. [TA 16/04/07]
IMF Sees Liberia Growth Surge
Liberia's economic growth, already motoring at nearly 8% thanks to reconstruction
after a civil war, will surge above 11% on average in the coming five years
according to the International Monetary Fund. An IMF team which visited
earlier this month said however the West African country could not sustain
its huge
foreign debt, which totals nearly $4bn, and needed comprehensive debt relief. "A
similar growth rate is projected for 2007.
Over the period 2008-2012, growth is
now projected to average over 11%, buoyed by the expected revival of mining,
forestry and agricultural sectors," it
said. Arcelor-Mittal, the world's biggest steel company, is investing $1bn
in an iron ore mine in Liberia, including building a railway and upgrading
port facilities. [Reuters 17/04/07]
Belgian Foreign Minister Hold Talks
President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf has held talks in Monrovia with Belgian Foreign
Minister Mr. Karel De Gucht to forge strong bilateral agreements between
the countries. Pres. Johnson-Sirleaf visited Belgium a month ago as part
of a three-nation tour. [TA 10/04/07]
NPA Board Dismisses Top Managers
The Board of Directors of the National Port Authority [NPA] has dismissed the
entire top management team at the NPA for lack of performance. According
to its Chairman, Musa Bility, they were relieved of their positions on 31/03/07.
NPA Managing Director, Togba Nangana, Deputy Managing Director for Administration,
Hans Williams and Deputy Managing Director for Operations, James Dogba Yassah,
have all been dismissed.
At the same time, the NPA Board has appointed board member Joseph Kollie Acquoi
I, as Acting Managing Director. Other Board members appointed include Mr. S.
Reginald Pratt, Acting Deputy Managing Director for Administration and Ms.
Grace Tee Kpaan, Deputy Managing Director for Operations. Ms. Kpaan is the
President of the Dock Workers Union of Liberia [DOWUL]. Prior to the dismissal
of the entire management team, the NPA Board had suspended the Comptroller,
Joss Woods. Also, President Johnson-Sirleaf recently appointed Mr. Togba Nangana
as Deputy Minister for Technical Services at the Ministry of Public Works.
[TA 26/03/07]
US Government Gives Road Equipment
The US Government turned has given a Caterpillar motor grader, two front end
loaders, and a backhoe loader as first of several pieces of road reconstruction
and maintenance equipment, which are valued at the cost US$2.0 million. [TI
27/03/07]
Government Grants Waiver
The Liberian government has granted a 100% waiver on storage charges covering
personal effects, humanitarian and medical items currently at the Freeport
of Monrovia. The decision to waive storages charges was reached following
a meeting between President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and the Management and
Board of Directors of the NPA. Under terms of the waiver, institutions or
individuals applying for waivers must clear all finance and other customs
taxes to qualify. [Liberia Government 21/03/07]
Netherlands & Spain To Assist With Liberian Ports
President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has held talks with Dutch officials whilst
on a recent visit to Europe. The Dutch government is interested in Liberian
Ports and what assistance they can render toward their rehabilitation. The
Dutch would also be looking at land reclamation initiatives.
Johnson-Sirleaf also held a series of meetings with the Spanish Prime Minister,
Rodriguez Zapatero. As a result of that meeting, the Government of Spain will
organize a Mission to Liberia, to assess the possibility of undertaking renovations
at the port of Monrovia as well as the removal of sunken vessels in the harbour.
Spain is also expected to assume the leadership in the renovation of the port.
Both projects would be on a multilateral basis. [Liberia Government: 19 March
Press Brief]
Japan Renews Bilateral Ties
Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Aso has announced his country's decision to
renew full bilateral relations with Liberia. Aso said the decision is based
on the strong leadership exhibited by President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf since
her ascendancy as Africa's first democratically elected female president.
Johnson-Sirleaf held discussions with Japanese ship owners to encourage them
to register with Liberia under the country's Maritime Program. [TA 15/03/07]
Seafarers Launch Operation Breakthrough
Officers of the Seafarers' Section of the United Seaman Union at the Free Port
of Monrovia have called on the Liberian Government to assist in providing
employment for Liberian seafarers onboard ships flying the Liberian flag.
The launching of ‘Operation Breakthrough’ is also intended to
strengthen the Seafarers' Section of the United Seaman Union to create avenues
to finding placement back onboard Liberian flag ships around the marine world
to rebuild the seafarers' offices, with specific reference to the three seaports
namely Buchana, Greenville and Harper respectively. Liberia maintains the
second largest fleet in the world, next to Panama with approximately over
2,000 ships registered under the Liberian flag, but no Liberian seafarers
are employed onboard those ships. [TA 05/03/07]
USCGC Port Visit In Liberia
The US Coast Guard [USCGC Legare] made a historic five-day port call to Monrovia,
the first US military ship to moor in Monrovia in more than 17 years. The
visit formed part of US Naval Forces Europe-Africa's strategy to improve
maritime security and safety in the Gulf of Guinea. Officers met with key
officials, including Eva Clinton, Deputy Commissioner for the Bureau of Maritime
Affairs; Togba Ngangana, Managing Director for the Liberian National Port
Authority; Major General Mohammed Tahir, UNMIL Deputy Force Commander; and
Ophelia Hoff Saytoman, Mayor of Monrovia. These official calls focused primarily
on the importance and restoration of Monrovia’s port, maritime security,
the rebuilding of Monrovia, and the future of Liberia. [US European Command
27/02/07]
China Unveils Package: 7 Agreements
President Hu Jintao recently arrived in Liberia on a one-day state visit, the
first ever by a Chinese president. Building on Sino-Liberia relations a number
of packages were realized including a 10% waiver of Liberia's over US$50M
debt, exportation to Chinese markets of Liberian products, technical and
economic assistance, the modernization of the Monrovia and Fendell campuses
of the University of Liberia, and the building of a modern FM and shortwave
services for the Liberian Broadcasting System. Others are construction of
three free-of-charge schools in three of the 15 counties of Liberia, aiding
of projects in Liberia, and the pavement of key roads in the counties among
many others.
Liberian Foreign Minister George Wallace signed
for and on behalf of Liberia while Chinese Foreign Minister, Li Zhongming,
signed for his country.
President
Jintao was accompanied to Liberia by a 120-man high power delegation including,
Li Yongoing, Foreign Minister, Li Zhongming, Minister of National Development,
Ma Kai and Commerce Minister, Bo Xilia, among others. [TA 02/02/06]
LBDI to
Lend to Importers And Exporters
The International Finance Corporation [IFC] has signed a US$2 million facility
with the Liberian Bank for Development and Investment [LBDI] to help it
expand its capacity to lend to importers and exporters. Currently import
trade to
Liberia is conducted on an advance cash payment system since banks in Liberia
do not have confirmed letters of credit overseas, due to the perceived
risk following the civil conflict. Big and small businesses have had little
or
no access to credit facility from banks in the country. Development banking
has been virtually non-existent due to years of civil war that ended in 2003.
With
the US$2M boost to LBDI, Liberia's largest and oldest bank, the IFC said this "will allow Liberia to participate in the network of international
confirming banks".
IFC, the private sector arm of the World Bank, is
the largest multilateral source of financing for the private sector in emerging
markets and it has re-engaged
in Liberia working with the post-war government of President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf.
[TI 05/02/07]
US Team Assesses Maritime Training Institute
The US Merchant Marine Academy has announced that it will work along with the
Liberian Government in restoring the maritime training institute located
in Marshall lower Margibi County. [TI 08/02/07]
World Bank Approves US$8.5 Million Grant
For Liberia To Include Port of Monrovia - 15/11/06
The World Bank approved on November 14, another grant totaling US$8.5 million
to the Government of Liberia to support its infrastructural regeneration programs.
The
transport sector in Liberia prior to the civil war included road and railway
networks, civil aviation, and several ports. Today, the railway network does
not exist, civil aviation is limited to Monrovia with only UN flights operating
upcountry, and the Port of Monrovia is the only operational port in the country.
During the years of conflict, the sector was able to undertake intermittent
maintenance activities but no periodic maintenance. Partial rehabilitation
and new construction were sporadic and limited in scope. As a result of the
chronic under investment and lack of maintenance, the rehabilitation requirements
of the sector today are enormous.
Ellen, Wade Rejuvenates Liberia-Senegal Relations
President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf and Senegalese President, Abdoulaye Wade, have
held talks in Dakar, aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between the
two countries.[TA 04/12/06]
UNMIL Promises to Repair Sinoe Roads
The United Nations Mission in Liberia [UNMIL], has promised to rehabilitate
several major roads in Sinoe County. The Special Representative of the
UN Secretary General, Ambassador Allan Doss, said in the next few months,
the
mission will embark on the rehabilitation of roads in the county especially
the Sinoe Rubber Plantation-Greenville Road. [TI 08/12/06]
VAT Flat Rate Scheme - 09/10/06
The Value Added Tax [VAT] Flat Rate Scheme, to impose a flat rate of 3% on
final products from the informal sector, will be operational by the end
of the year. The scheme, having been approved by the VAT Service and the
cabinet
will be one of the first legislative instruments to be approved by parliament.
The flat rate will bring in a very big chunk of taxes from the informal
sector as it will broaden the tax net to capture traders in cooperatives,
such as
the Ghana United Traders Association [GUTA]. The flat rate scheme applies
to traders with a turnover of about ¢1.2 billion a year. [GC 03/10/06]
Achimota-Ofankor
Road Project Takes Off -10/10/06
President Kufuor has performed the ceremony for reconstruction works to start
on the 400.4 billion cedi Achimota-Ofankor section of the Accra-Nsawam
road. This project involves the construction of a three-lane dual carriageway
with
three interchanges and service lanes. It is being funded by the Government
and is scheduled for completion in 36 months. [AM 09/10/06]
Port of Monrovia New Free Storage - 05/09/06
Effective as of August 2006 the Port authority has amended the number of days
storage of goods at the port. Non profit organizations, charitable institutions
and individuals will have 45 days of free storage while other entities are
entitled to 20 days.
Companies Bid for NPA Tugboat - 05/09/06
About 22 companies both foreign and Liberian-owned including one belonging
to the former Chairman of the National Transitional Government of Liberia,
[NTGL] Charles Gyude Bryant, have submitted a bid for the purchase of a second-hand
tugboat for the National Port Authority [NPA].
Plans To Annex Maritime Bureau to the Finance Ministry
- 05/09/06
Bong County Representative, George Mulbah, says he will oppose any draft legislation
to annex the Bureau of Maritime Affairs to the Finance Ministry. Mulbah did
not say if such a bill was already before the legislature for enactment into
law, but in a press release the lawmaker said such a decision would create
bottlenecks and inflexibility in adequately serving ship and vessels flying
the Liberian Flag. [TA 04/09/06]
Government Increases Petroleum Price By 20% - 07/08/06
The Government of Liberia has announced an increase in the prices of petroleum
products. Commerce Minister Olubemkie King Akerele said the wholesale price
for gasoline will be US$3.05 while retail price is $3.20 for gas oil is
US$3.20 [wholesale] and US$3.35 [retail] and for kerosene is US$3.00 [wholesale]
and US$3.15 [retail].
UN Security Council Lifts Timber Ban - 06/07/06
The United Nations Security Council on 20/06/06 lifted the ban on the export
of round logs and timber as it applauded the country's new President for
her efforts in managing the nation's forests.
Transport Ministers Sign Treaty - 06/07/06
An agreement calling for the establishment of a land transport services between
the Guinea Transport Union (GTU) and Federation of Liberia, has been signed
in Monrovia. The agreement states that both unions will further strengthen
and assess the movement of commercial vehicles between Guinea and Liberia,
ensure free movement of goods and services as well as to protect and observe
protocols of the Mano River Union.
Liberia GTZ Completes 67 Km Road Project - 06/07/06
A 67km stretch of road that runs through Voinjama, Kolahun and Foya [Lofa County]
has been revamped by the German Technical Cooperation [GTZ]. The GTZ recently
rehabilitated the road with the help of the German Development Cooperation
(BMZ), United Nationals High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and United
Nations Development Program (UNDP) at a cost of US$300,000.
Liberian Government Pledges Support to IMO - 06/07/06
President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf has expressed appreciations to the International
Maritime Organization (IMO) and pledged her government's fullest cooperation
to the Organisation in realizing its efforts towards aiding Liberia's development.
Bomi County Road Task Force - 08/03/06
The Bomi County Road Task Force has made assessments of the road from Klay
to Dehdaylai and the road from Be Lekpai Town to Manjama [all within Bomi
County]. Participants of this assessment were UNMIL Civil Affairs, UNMIL
RRR, WFP, UNHCR, a representative for the Superintendent of Bomi, representation
from the ministry of public works and the LRRRC. Local community inhabitants
will participate in road-rehabilitation as a part of the food for work program.
[08/03/06]
150 Day Impact Scheme - New Roads to be
Constructed -20/03/06
Several projects worth millions of dollars have been earmarked by the Public
Works Ministry to meet the 150 days impact creation scheme as promised by
the government. The projects include the construction of primary and secondary
roads, namely the Ganta-Harper Highway, Saniquellie-Ganta, Voinjama-Sierra
Leone border to Monrovia, Zwedru-Grand Kru, among others. The donors of these
projects include the USAID, EU, GTZ and the Government of China. According
to the Chief Information Officer of the Public Works Ministry, Fasama Kollie
engineers are to be dispatched to these counties as soon as possible. [TA
21/03/06]
UN Bridge Built in a Week - 20/03/06
A steel bridge with a 33-ton capacity, has been built in one week by the Chinese
contingent of the United Nations Mission in Liberia [UNMIL]. Te Sarbo Bridge
is the fourth bridge completed by the contingent, Alan Doss, the Special
Representative of Secretary-General Kofi Annan, said the achievement ‘emonstrates
not only the contingent's technical abilities and competence, but also the
great dedication and commitment to their job as peacekeepers, and shows their
contribution to the recovery of Liberia.’ he new bridge unites River
Gee and Maryland counties in Liberia. [UN Release 20/03/06]
Relations Between
GSS and the National Port Authority May Lead to Court - 20/03/06
At present, relations are not ideal between the National Port Authority
[NPA] and GSS Group Limited. The tension has arisen from the decision by
the NPA
Management to order the GSS Group Ltd to halt its operations at the port.
Monrovia Port - Salvage Operation Delayed
as New Government Steps In - 10/02/06
It was reported earlier this month that efforts to have the sunken MV Torm
Alexandra* salvaged from Monrovia port had been reached. An agreement between
the Israeli Group, Global Security Seal [GSS] and the National Port Authority
[NPA] meant that the salvaging of the vessel was expected to start on February
1, 2006 at an estimated cost of US$3 million. The operation was due to last
for six weeks however it has now been delayed pending discussions with the
newly installed government.
UN Renews Ban On Arms, Diamonds And Timber
- 21/12/05
The UN Security Council took just four minutes to unanimously extend bans on
the sale of arms, diamonds and timber for six to 12 months in post-conflict
Liberia. "The Security Council, determining that the situation in Liberia
continued to constitute a threat to international peace and security, decided
to renew its ban on the sale or supply of arms, diamonds and timber." The
arms embargo will remain in place for a further 12 months, while bans on
the sale of diamonds and timber will stay in place for six months. Travel
bans on individuals identified by the UN as a threat to peace in Liberia
will also remain in place until June 2006.
Monrovia Port: An Insiders View - 21/12/05
The port of Monrovia has been run for the past two years by LURD rebels during
a transitional government, which will end when the new President is installed
on Jan 16th. Unfortunately during this period little attention has been given
to the running and maintenance of the port and its infrastructure. The MD
of the port has concentrated on leasing out as much of the port property
as he can, and arranging a contract with an Israeli company to operate the
container park within the port. It has been reported that these contracts
show very little [if any] benefit to the income of the port or the country,
but have been extremely beneficial to the signatories.
The following handling equipment is present at the Freeport. However,
due to the recent conflict, much is now non operational. WFP and the
United Sates Military Joint Task Force are currently in the process
of procuring those spare parts necessary to reactivate the equipment.
Equipment
Quantity
Top Lifters (36-42mt)
1
Empty Lifter (14mt)
1
Forklifts (1 - 3mt)
3
Cranes
1
The NPA crane is theTEREX T160.
The attributes of the TEREX T160 are outlined below:
In January 2004 the Management of the National Port Authority (NPA)
presented a needs assessment document to the World Food Program (WFP)
and the United nations Joint Logistics Centre (UNJLC). Requests were
divided into areas of priority as follows:
Phase 1 - Freeport of Monrovia - provision of
cargo handling and marine craft, repair of offices and supplies
Phase
2 - Freeport of Monrovia - removal of wrecks and port dredging
Phase
3 - Freeport of Monrovia - rehabilitation and expansion of the
wharf
Phase 4 - Freeport of Monrovia - miscellaneous
- construction equipment, disposal facilities, utilities
Phase 5
- Out Ports - Buchanan, Greenville, Harper
Phase 6 - Freeport
of Monrovia - Long term development of a modern terminal including
a modern terminal
inclusive of landside, water front
facilities and equipment, rehabilitation and
expansion of existing oil jetty and associated dredging works
