Guyana’s shipping industry has taken a major leap forward with the introduction of mobile harbor cranes, allowing gearless vessels to dock and be serviced efficiently for the first time. The initiative is led by Cranes Guyana Inc., a new joint venture between Muneshwers Limited and John Fernandes Limited.
The US$14 million project, billed to enhance port efficiency, safety, and competitiveness was commissioned on Feb. 14.
Phillip Fernandes, Chief Executive Officer of John Fernandes Limited and Director of Cranes Guyana Inc. explained that the initiative to invest in the mobile harbor cranes was sparked by Tom Fehily of Caribbean Feeder Service. Initially, he said there was skepticism about whether Guyana’s cargo volumes justified such an investment. However, after further discussions, it became clear that “the time had come.”
Muneshwers’ Limited in US$4 million deal with IDB for Guyana’s first mobile crane | OilNOW
The construction of reinforced berths to accommodate the cranes began in March 2023, led by local engineer Bagheera Morley and designed by SRKN Engineering. Operational trials started in November 2023.
Fernandes highlighted that “100% of the work to prepare for these massive machines was designed and constructed by local service providers.”
The cranes, named Atlas and Hercules, have a 49-meter working radius and a lifting capacity of 125 tons. He humorously noted, “That’s more than seven times the weight of everyone here combined—we’ve tried it, mark my word!”
The project faced numerous physical obstacles, especially in reinforcing existing berths, said Robin Muneshwar, Executive Director of Muneshwars Limited and Director of Cranes Guyana Inc. “We were working on the two busiest ports in Guyana, adding to the challenge.”
Muneshwar stated that “these cranes represent the future of the shipping industry in Guyana.” He noted ongoing discussions with the government about developing a national port, calling it a necessary step given Guyana’s rapid growth.
John Fernandes secures US$4 million loan for Guyana’s second mobile crane | OilNOW
The entire project cost US$14 million; US$8 million was expended to procure the cranes while US$6 million was spent on the construction of the wharf. It was made possible with the support of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).
IDB Guyana rep. Lorena Salazar noted, “This partnership has not only provided an innovative solution for transport and logistics in Guyana but has also set a precedent for future developments.”
President Irfaan Ali delivered the feature address praising the joint venture calling it “a bold and visionary step” that demonstrates the potential of local businesses in Guyana’s growing oil and gas sector.
Ali acknowledged the shipping and logistics challenges in the country, including congestion and infrastructure limitations. He assured that solutions were in progress, including the development of a deep-water harbor.
He also highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting investments in infrastructure. “We are prioritizing the development of key port and inland transportation facilities to facilitate smooth and more cost-effective movement of goods and services,” Ali said.
