Japanese shipowner invests in local

BEE companies RAY SMUTS LEADING JAPANESE ship owner, The Sanko Steamship Co of Tokyo, has made a strategic financial investment in Marine Bulk Carriers (MBC) and Marine Crew Services (MCS) in Cape Town. The move is designed to boost job creation, skills transfer and benefits for South Africa from greater involvement in the shipping of raw materials and crude oils. “It is all part of our commitment to South Africa,” says Sanko president and CEO Steve Matsui of his company’s involvement with MBC and MCS. Both are black empowerment ventures which came into being when South Africa’s Black Economic Empowerment Maritime Charter became a reality in 2004. “Sanko’s investment in these BEE companies will ensure they have the financial resources and vessels necessary to carry South African cargo,” says Matsui. “Sanko is also committed to providing a substantial number of training berths on its vessels to a growing number of prospective South African mariners, with a view to providing their long-term sustainable employment. “Ship owners worldwide are looking for new resources of committed seafarers and through Sanko’s involvement we will also ensure the highest standards of training.” Sanko, operating a fleet of 100 bulk and LPG carriers with a further 50 vessels to be taken into service within the next two to three years, is familiar with the South African trade and has over the years been significantly involved in the export of raw materials and the importation of crude oil. The company is intent on expanding its involvement in South Africa through its investment. Lance Manala, MD of both the MBC and MCS, says the Sanko investment greatly increases South Africa’s participation in the shipping of bulk cargo to and from South Africa “because we now have access to ships that will boost the local economy.” Marine Crew Services made its first breakthrough in creating jobs for South Africans last year with the hand-over of the first South African crew to the Holy House Shipping Line of Sweden.