Singapore-based container operator Pacific International Lines (PIL) held the naming ceremony of its latest 8,200 TEU LNG dual-fuel container vessel at the Port of Tema, marking a historic first for PIL in Ghana. 

The vessel, part of PIL’s new “O” Class series, was officially named Kota Odyssey by Her Excellency Ms Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, Vice President of Republic of Ghana, who served as the Lady Sponsor.

Her Excellency Ms Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, Vice President of Republic of Ghana, said: “This ceremony is a celebration of maritime innovation and a testament to Ghana’s growing stature in regional trade and logistics. For their part, PIL’s local and regional offices have long contributed to port and intermodal connectivity. Today, with the deployment of this state-of-the-art vessel to service Ghana, PIL is playing a further role in building our trade links with Asia and our neighbours across West Africa.

“This occasion is a sign of the long standing and ever-growing relationship between Ghana and Singapore. Our two nations share a common commitment to innovation and sustainability and people development. We have strengthened our ties through trade agreements and collaborations, particularly in economic and environmental areas. 

“Singapore’s expertise as a leading maritime hub is something that informs our own progress. We therefore appreciate that PIL highlights our bilateral relationship by creating jobs and supporting the development of local talent. We look forward to even greater collaborations between Ghana and Singapore.”

The vessel will operate on PIL’s South West Africa Service (SWS), connecting China, Singapore, Ghana, Togo, Nigeria, and Côte d’Ivoire through a direct weekly service. This strengthens trade flows between Asia and West Africa and reinforces Ghana’s role as a strategic logistics hub.

“Naming this vessel in Ghana reflects our deep-rooted presence and growing investment in the country,” said Mr Lars Kastrup, CEO of PIL. “Ghana plays a vital role in our network, not only as a key gateway into West Africa but also as a strategic hub for regional connectivity and inland transport.

“This ceremony underscores our commitment to supporting Ghana’s maritime ambitions and contributing to its economic development. As we continue to develop our operations here, we remain focused on delivering sustainable, integrated shipping and logistics solutions that meet the evolving needs of Ghana and the wider African trade landscape.”

PIL has operated in Africa since the 1970s and now serves over 30 African countries, with seven weekly services and a feeder network connecting more than 40 ports. Ghana is home to PIL’s West Africa regional head office, and a key gateway for inland transport into Burkina Faso.

Photo credit: Pacific International Lines
Published: 18 September, 2025