By Saskia Warrick
February 14, 2025
After more than three decades of competition, two major shipping companies, John Fernandes Ltd. and Muneshwers Ltd., have joined forces to create Cranes Guyana, a joint cargo and freight company aimed at modernizing port operations.
The newly formed company commissioned two mobile harbour cranes, Atlas and Hercules, during a ceremony on Friday.
This $14 million investment, financed with support from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), is expected to enhance port efficiency and safety.
With the addition of these cranes, vessels without onboard cranes will now be able to receive services, significantly reducing turnaround time and bolstering Guyana’s shipping sector.
Philip Fernandes, CEO of John Fernandes Ltd., reflected on the significance of this collaboration, acknowledging that the time had come for the two companies to come together.
Robin Muneshwer, Executive Director of Muneshwers Ltd., highlighted the broader importance of this partnership for the shipping community.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali commended the move, calling it a model example of private-sector collaboration and urging other businesses to follow suit in fostering economic growth.
The government of Guyana is also working with Cranes Guyana to establish a national port while addressing challenges such as waterfront land shortages and vessel size restrictions.