Transnet Port Terminals (TPT) has identified investment in technology as a key priority as it faces increasing competition from neighbouring ports.
Speaking in Cape Town recently, chief executive Nozipho Sithole referred to a recent study by PwC that highlighted the need for ports on the continent to step up on investment. Sithole said the study had also found that TPT was the top performing operator amongst its African peers at present.
“TPT occupies the top spot in terms of performance amongst the African ports, be they in the east or the west,” she said. “But we do appreciate that ports are coming up and that they are investing in infrastructure and so for us to continue to be the gateway into Africa we have to improve our efficiency.”
Sithole said that efficiency would not come from physical infrastructure investment alone, but also required investment into technologies.
“That is where our competitive advantage lies going forward,” said Sithole. “And as far as technology is concerned we are open for business in terms of partnerships. We are looking to partner with companies to deliver the technology solutions we need.”
She said they were looking into partnerships to address truck fluidity in the ports. “Truck booking systems to make sure there is fluidity for the trucks coming in and out of terminals is one area we are looking at from a partnership point of view.”
But, Sithole said, it was not just about technology and expertise, but also high performing teams. “We acknowledge that we need people who are passionate and who understand the logistics game. So, some of the partnerships we require will have to include exchange arrangements where there is cross training in our businesses, so that when we work together the language, the attitude, the passion and the expertise is all the same.”
She said TPT was also looking to partner with original equipment manufacturers going forward. “When I buy a tipper, for example, I want it fitted with technology that allows me to reduce down time, and that gives me the ability to analyse operating conditions so that at any given time we can make sure the equipment is maintained and working optimally.”
She said TPT clearly understood it was a facilitator of trade and was facing competition from all across Africa.
INSERT
As far as technology is concerned we are open for business in terms of partnerships. – Nozipho Sithole
