Moves afoot to modernise port performance

The port and logistics environment in Durban and Richards Bay is increasingly being shaped by infrastructure modernisation, corridor integration and a growing focus on operational reliability across the supply chain. According to Darren Jankelow, head of sales for maritime cranes and construction machines at Liebherr-Africa, increasing emphasis is being placed on improving reliability and integration between rail, port and terminal operations as South Africa’s freight sector looks to strengthen efficiency and support long-term trade growth. “Stakeholders are recognising that port performance cannot be viewed in isolation, but rather, as part of an interconnected corridor ecosystem,” said Jankelow. Speaking to Freight News, he said digital tools were becoming just as important in supporting asset management, maintenance planning and operational visibility. “There is also a rising interest in energy-efficient equipment and lower-emission operational models as ports align themselves with broader sustainability and decarbonisation objectives.” Asked about the role of the specific ports, he said Richards Bay continues to play a strategically important role within the bulk commodities sector, while Durban remains central to containerised trade flows and regional distribution into southern Africa. A key development currently under way is the construction of Liebherr’s new multimillion- rand Competence and Distribution Centre in Durban, which is scheduled to become operational during the first quarter of next year. Once completed, the facility will serve as a central hub for technical expertise, parts availability, training and advanced OEM (original equipment manufacturer) lifecycle support for southern African port operations. “The new facility will also incorporate a state-of-the-art technology and training campus focused on developing local technical skills and supporting the upskilling of personnel working within the port and logistics sector,” said Jankelow. “This investment reflects our long-term commitment to both infrastructure development and sustainable local capability within the region.” According to Jankelow, the outlook for both Durban and Richards Bay is increasingly positive, supported by ongoing operational recovery, infrastructure investment and stronger industry collaboration. Durban is expected to continue strengthening its position as the region’s primary container gateway, supported by equipment upgrades, maintenance initiatives and broader efforts to improve terminal productivity and corridor efficiency. Richards Bay is likely to remain a strategically important bulk export hub, particularly as demand for mineral and energy-related commodities remains resilient. Continued focus on rail integration and terminal optimisation will be critical to unlocking further growth potential. “From an OEM perspective, there is growing confidence within the market. The increasing focus on modernisation, operational reliability and long- term investment creates a strong foundation for sustainable growth across both ports.” Jankelow said the strongest opportunities lay in equipment modernisation, terminal efficiency improvements and corridor-linked growth initiatives. “We are a seeing gradual improvement and stabilisation in cargo volumes across both Durban and Richards Bay, although growth patterns vary by commodity and cargo type,” he said. “Durban has experienced improving container throughput as operational reliability continues to recover and confidence among shipping lines and cargo owners strengthens. Agricultural exports, consumer goods and regional transit cargo remain important contributors to volume growth. “Richards Bay continues to benefit from strong demand within the bulk commodities sector, particularly minerals and resource-linked exports. Corridor performance remains a key determining factor, where improvements in rail and terminal reliability typically translate directly into increased throughput volumes.” LV