Dalgaard calls for accelerated development at Coega

RAY SMUTS WHILE CONVINCED that Transnet CEO Maria Ramos, is dedicated to the success of Coega, accelerating development is of the essence, says Flemming Dalgaard, managing director of Maersk Sealand for Southern Africa. “One thing about Coega which featured in our discussions with Transnet, is that time is running out. The port is there, but there is no other infrastructure apart from quayside, so something needs to happen as only bulk ships will be able to call there now.” Describing the new development as “an interesting place” toward which he feels positive, Dalgaard says of the tender process due later this year: “We will have to see what the tenders are but Coega definitely has our interest, no doubt about that.” As to why it has taken well nigh eight or nine years to attract the very first tenant, Belgian textile group Sander, Dalgaard says: “I think there has to be a more dedicated strategy or focus on exactly what the IDZ is supposed to be. I believe that focus is there with Ramos and minister Alec Erwin. They want to make Coega a success so from now on I think we will see some speed.”