The African Harbour Masters’ Committee (AHMC) has elected Captain Thulani Dubeko, Harbour Master at the Transnet National Ports Authority’s (TNPA’s) Port of Ngqura, as its new president.
AHMC, which brings together African harbour masters to share ideas on the management of all aspects of maritime port operations, announced Dubeko’s election during the 14th International Harbour Masters’ Congress in Tangier, Morocco.
The committee is a chapter of the International Harbour Masters’ Association. It is responsible for ensuring the safe, secure, efficient, and environmentally sound conduct of marine operations in port waters.
As the president of the AHMC, Dubeko will be responsible for developing harbour masters across the continent through the exchange of knowledge and training to help improve safety and customer service. His role includes advancing the African Integrated Maritime Strategy 2050, which aims to improve maritime conditions related to environmental and economic development on the continent.
Dubeko, who grew up in Lusikisiki, had always dreamed of working in the military. He had no exposure to the maritime sector until his interest was stimulated while serving in the South African Navy.
After his time in the navy, Dubeko pursued a qualification in maritime studies at the Durban University of Technology. In his second year of studies in 1998 he was awarded a Transnet bursary.
He qualified and went on to join TNPA as a trainee in marine operations. He went to Rotterdam for marine pilot training and then progressed through various positions within the South African port system, working as a tug master, marine pilot, marine operations manager, and deputy harbour master before assuming his current position.
Dubeko was appointed vice president of AHMC in October 2022.
TNPA Chief Harbour Master, Captain Rufus Lekala, congratulated Dubeko on his latest appointment.
“It is encouraging that our professionals are able to hold positions of responsibility in such prestigious institutions and worldwide organisations. These institutions are key in driving development and transformation of the maritime sector,” Lekala said.
Dubeko’s term as president of AHMC will end in 2026.
