First Call of Rhone Maersk Marks Launch of MESSAWA/MIDAS at Kribi Port
First Call of Rhone Maersk Marks Launch of MESSAWA/MIDAS at Kribi Port
A Strategic Boost to Connectivity with Asia and the Middle East
On May 8, 2020, the Port of Kribi reached a new milestone by receiving the Rhone Maersk, the first vessel to operate under the newly launched MESSAWA/MIDAS weekly service. This event officially marked the integration of Kribi into a critical trade corridor connecting West Africa with Asia and the Middle East.
The Kribi Container Terminal (KCT), operated under international standards, will now handle vessels carrying containers both to and from these economically vital regions. This new maritime link enhances direct connectivity with global supply chains, positioning Kribi as a preferred transshipment and import/export hub in Central Africa.
Key Benefits of the MESSAWA/MIDAS Service:
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Weekly frequency, ensuring regular and predictable shipping schedules.
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Reduced transit times, improving supply chain efficiency for importers and exporters.
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Direct access to Asia and the Middle East, including ports in India, the UAE, China, and Southeast Asia.
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Improved cargo handling and service reliability through KCT’s modern infrastructure.
By hosting the MESSAWA/MIDAS service, the Port Authority of Kribi (PAK) is addressing the growing demand for high-quality, long-distance shipping services, particularly for industries reliant on timely imports of equipment, goods, and raw materials.
A Step Forward in PAK’s Vision
This development aligns with the Port Authority of Kribi’s strategic ambition to become a leading logistics platform in West and Central Africa. It strengthens the port’s international attractiveness, enhances its competitiveness, and contributes to Cameroon’s economic integration within global trade networks.
Furthermore, this initiative supports the government’s broader objective of diversifying export markets and facilitating industrial growth, by offering national and regional economic actors a reliable maritime alternative.
The Port Authority of Kribi remains committed to expanding its network of services, attracting global partners, and offering world-class port operations to all stakeholders.
