Investment in new management systems and equipment is allowing the port of Maputo to exceed its initial design capacity for mineral exports, according to Maputo Port Development Company (MPDC) commercial director Neusa Saranga. The storage facilities in the Maputo terminal are running at full capacity, and better use is being made of slab for the handling of minerals through optimising stocking, capacity and cargo allocation. “We are making much better use of the space in the port,” she says. Investment in a new ring road for trucks and dedicated storage facilities for the different commodities has paid off, and there are minimal delays for trucks in the port, according to Saranga. Using software designed by the port, customers will be able to monitor all loads when the truck is weighed just before discharge, and again when the commodity is moved out of the storage area and on to a vessel. The system, which is currently in the implementation phase, is fully automated. In line with the planned rehabilitation of berths 6, 7, 8 and 9, MPDC is evaluating the possibility of acquiring another mobile harbour crane. There is also ongoing investment in training and staff development. Crane moves per hour have been increased from 10 to 22 as a result of ongoing training and improved efficiencies in the movement of bulk cargo. Rehabilitation, dredging and strengthening, together with the deepening of the approach channel to the port, have increased vessel loading capacity from 50 000 tons to 120 000. This allows for a direct connection between the port of Maputo and the main international ports of call as vessels are now able to leave fully laden, she says. Vessels are also able to take on bunkers in the port, and a tender will be issued to ensure that the service continues after the present concession to Petromoc Bunkering expires. Services being added include the pushing up of cargo, and the separation of different commodities and grades of a single commodity within the hold. More capacity will be freed up with the demolition of unused sheds on the quayside. MPDC is also looking at ways of improving the efficiency of its marine services. Replacing pilot boats with helicopters, an option that is being looked at, will enable pilots to take control of vessels farther up the channel. This will reduce entry times and avoid vessels running aground on the turns. INSERT & CAPTION
Investment in a new ring road for trucks and dedicated storage facilities for the different commodities has paid off, and there are minimal delays for trucks. – Neusa Saranga
