Monrovia, Liberia – The National Port Authority (NPA) has successfully berthed the largest container vessel ever to call at a Liberian port, marking a significant milestone in the country’s maritime sector and underscoring growing efficiency at the Freeport of Monrovia.
The vessel, CMA CGM Springs, measuring approximately 238.7 meters in length and carrying about 43,000 metric tons of cargo and 3,000 containers, was discharged within two days—an achievement officials say reflects improved operational capacity at the port.
According to NPA Managing Director Sekou A. M. Dukuly, the vessel recorded an average of nearly 60 container moves per hour during discharge operations, making it the fastest turnaround time for a ship of its size in Liberia’s history.
Speaking to reporters during a tour of the vessel on Wednesday, Dukuly said the successful berthing was carried out by a Liberian marine pilot, highlighting the growing expertise and professionalism of NPA personnel.
“This achievement demonstrates the commitment, dedication, and growing technical capacity of our workforce,” Dukuly said.
The NPA boss noted that Liberia’s container trade has experienced substantial growth, increasing from 24 percent in 2024 to more than 40 percent in early 2026. He attributed the rise to ongoing reforms within the port sector and broader economic expansion, which he said is projected at between 5 and 6 percent.
Dukuly emphasized that the gains made at the port are the result of strategic efforts to reposition the maritime sector as a key driver of national economic growth.
Looking ahead, he disclosed plans to dredge the Freeport of Monrovia to restore its original design depth of 15 meters. The port’s current depth has reportedly decreased to about 11 meters due to years of sand accumulation, limiting access for larger vessels.
He also stressed the importance of increasing Liberia’s exports, particularly rubber, agricultural products, and timber, to help balance the country’s trade portfolio and maximize the benefits of increased shipping activity.
Additionally, Dukuly reaffirmed the NPA’s commitment to investing in workforce development and capacity-building initiatives to sustain improvements in port operations.
The tour of the vessel was attended by French Ambassador to Liberia Isabelle Le Guellec, Transport Minister Sirleaf Ralph Tyler, and representatives of APM Terminals Liberia and CMA CGM.
The arrival and rapid discharge of the CMA CGM Springs is being viewed as a strong indicator of Liberia’s growing attractiveness as a maritime and trade hub in West Africa.
