The Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) is forging ahead with an ambitious agenda to fortify and modernise South Africa’s port infrastructure. In a strategic move to ensure the country’s ports can seamlessly accommodate the next generation of vessels, the authority is prioritising efficiency in both vessel and cargo handling, alongside a steadfast commitment to ensuring the safety of all port users. These forward-thinking initiatives are poised not only to elevate the overall efficiency of the port systems, but also to bring about a more cost-effective operational structure.According to Thecla Mneney, TNPA general manager for infrastructure, the primary goal of the ongoing investment programme is the creation of new assets and new business as a catalyst for growth in the various regions. “Over and above new berths and terminals, there is also a focus on the creation of additional capacity through berth upgrades and deepening to improve throughput and operational efficiency.”She told Freight News it was not just about new projects, but also about sustaining and maintaining the current infrastructure through refurbishment and replacement projects to ensure it was fit for purpose and could support the operational requirements.Mneney said each port had an approved Port Development Framework Plan (PDFP) which indicated the planned short-, medium- and long-term developments. “These plans are geared towards addressing the constraint capacities, inefficiencies and traffic congestion in each port while promoting sustainability and security of supply. The projects derived from the PDFPs are intended to create resilient and sustainable port infrastructure.”The ongoing infrastructure projects, spotlighted on page 10 of this feature, pinpoint specific areas within various ports slated for enhancement and expansion. These targeted improvements encompass an increase in capacity for containers, automotive handling, and various commodities. Additionally, the projects aim to provide state-of-the-art facilities for gas and liquid fuel, contributing to the port’s versatility. Another noteworthy focus is on incorporating renewable energy sources and desalination, underlining a commitment to sustainable practices and resource efficiency.South Africa’s ports have persistently captured headlines as they have grappled with the challenges posed by ageing infrastructure, availability of capital funding and specialised project and engineering resources, resulting in issues such as congestion and suboptimal performance.Mneney said TNPA remained committed to finding solutions to the challenges at the ports, adding that investing in infrastructure remained a top priority. “The port system is a critical enabler for the logistics chain and the bulk import and export of key commodities, with each port focusing on its regional position and unique opportunities for growth and development.”
