South African Logistics Firm Transnet is planning to launch a number of infrastructure projects at seven ports in the region, including Durban, Cape Down and Port Elizabeth, which will take place over the next five years, according to Ship-Technology.
Phyllis Difeto, COO of Transnet National Port Authority (TNPA), said: “A total of around US$139 million will be spent over the next five years to refurbish existing repair facilities, while we will invest an estimated $909 million to more than $1 billion to create new repair facilities at the South African ports.”
Zola Nkowane, Senior Operations Manager at the Port of Durban, said: “It involves the reconstruction and deepening of six of the 15 berths in this precinct.
Watch a world exclusive interview with Karl Socikwa, CEO of Transnet
“Once completed, the berths will have a draught of 14.5 metres, enabling them to handle vessels with draughts of up to 13 metres, however the Maydon Wharf entrance channel will still need to be deepened thereafter to enable these vessels to sail in fully laden.”
Berths 13 and 14 are currently under construction, with the construction of berths three and four anticipated to begin in early 2016.
Transnet's operations in South Africa. (Source: Transnet)
