Let's learn from our role models

Not only is there benefit to African ports benchmarking themselves against those in other parts of the world – there is also much to gain from learning from their experiences, according to Tau Morwe, CEO of Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA). He said while South African ports may be a far cry from those in Amsterdam and Singapore there was major benefit for local authorities to engage with their counterparts and exchange knowledge and share best practice. “The world’s eye is on Africa and we are seeing unprecedented growth. Developing a vibrant maritime industry is crucial in these times,” he said. Transnet group chief executive Brian Molefe told FTW that despite ongoing criticism around the Durban digout port and questions about the cost, it was the only feasible way the country could cater for the expected growth. “There is no way that the Port of Durban will be able to handle the volumes that are predicted. We have no choice but to construct a second port that will be able to deliver the necessary capacity. Africa’s time has come,” he said. Both Morwe and Molefe agreed that African ports faced some serious challenges in terms of efficiency and cost – which was why relationshipbuilding with other ports was so crucial. “Port infrastructure by its very nature is very expensive and we have very little room for error,” said Morwe. “If port authorities across Africa can get it right and successfully address their challenges by bringing about more efficient port operations, they will effectively reduce the cost of doing business across the continent and open up new cross-border business opportunities.” In this regard Gert-Jan Nieuwenhuizen, director international projects with the Port of Amsterdam, said there were some valuable lessons to be shared. “In Europe for instance we have realised that short-sea shipping is not the solution to moving cargo as quickly and cheaply as possible from its origin to its end user and we can bring much value to the conversation,” he said. This did not mean it could not be implemented in Africa, said Morwe, but rather that different approaches could be taken to ensure success based on the lessons learnt from other countries. INSERT & CAPTION 1 In Europe for instance we have realised that short-sea shipping is not the solution to moving cargo as quickly and cheaply as possible. – Gert-Jan Nieuwenhuizen INSERT & CAPTION 2 Port infrastructure by its very nature is very expensive and we have very little room for error. – Tau Morwe