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<header class="entry-header"> 164 165 <h1 class="entry-title">Africa PORTS & SHIPS maritime news 2 October 2026</h1> 166 <div class="entry-meta"><span class="meta-date"><svg class="icon icon-standard" aria-hidden="true" role="img"> <use xlink:href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/themes/gambit/assets/icons/genericons-neue.svg#standard"></use> </svg><a href="https://africaports.co.za/2026/10/02/africa-ports-ships-maritime-news-27-28-september-2026/" title="12:01 am" rel="bookmark"><time class="entry-date published updated" datetime="2026-10-02T00:01:30+02:00">2nd October 2026</time></a></span><span class="meta-author"> <svg class="icon icon-user" aria-hidden="true" role="img"> <use xlink:href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/themes/gambit/assets/icons/genericons-neue.svg#user"></use> </svg><span class="author vcard"><a class="url fn n" href="https://africaports.co.za/author/terryh/" title="View all posts by Terry Hutson" rel="author">Terry Hutson</a></span></span><span 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173w, 700px" /></a></p> 174<p><a href="https://www.amsol.co.za" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-67999" src="https://amsol.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/AMSOL-Banner-Advert-Apr-Jul-2024-PO-0005178-COMM.jpg" alt="" width="700" height="130" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/AMSOL-Banner-Advert-Apr-Jul-2024-PO-0005178-COMM.jpg 700w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/AMSOL-Banner-Advert-Apr-Jul-2024-PO-0005178-COMM-300x56.jpg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/AMSOL-Banner-Advert-Apr-Jul-2024-PO-0005178-COMM-150x28.jpg 150w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/AMSOL-Banner-Advert-Apr-Jul-2024-PO-0005178-COMM-500x93.jpg 500w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/AMSOL-Banner-Advert-Apr-Jul-2024-PO-0005178-COMM-600x111.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /></a></p> 175<p> </p> 176<p><a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#0e7a6b7c7c774e6f687c676d6f7e617c7a7d206d6120746f"><img decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-18236" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/BANNER-PORTS-SHIPS-2004-0.jpg" alt="" width="700" height="211" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/BANNER-PORTS-SHIPS-2004-0.jpg 700w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/BANNER-PORTS-SHIPS-2004-0-300x90.jpg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/BANNER-PORTS-SHIPS-2004-0-150x45.jpg 150w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/BANNER-PORTS-SHIPS-2004-0-500x151.jpg 500w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/BANNER-PORTS-SHIPS-2004-0-600x181.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100v
176w, 700px" /></a><br /> 177<strong><span style="color: #ff0000;">Advertise here. This space above is available. For a Rate Card email us at</span></strong> <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#06726374747f466760746f65677669747275286569287c67"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="36425344444f765750445f55574659444245185559184c57">[email protected]</span></a></p> 178<h3><span style="color: #0000ff;"><b>DAILY BULLETIN OF MARITIME NEWS </b></span></h3> 179<p><strong><span style="color: #003366;"><span style="color: #ff0000;"><em>Africa </em></span>PORTS & SHIPS</span></strong> <span style="color: #003366;">has brought you maritime and logistic news from the African continent since 2002. We thank you the reader for helping take our readership numbers to extraordinary high levels in 2025. As we move into the second half of 2026 these numbers are increasing even further, well beyond our own expectation – thank you and stay with us for the ride.</span></p> 180<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #ff0000;"><span style="color: #3366ff;">⦠⦠⦠</span>⦠⦠⦠⦠<span style="color: #3366ff;">â¦</span> ⦠⦠⦠â¦Â </span><span style="color: #3366ff;">⦠⦠â¦</span></h3> 181<h1 class="canvas" role="main"><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/week-15-BCO.e8f7af51-d9da-49a7-9cf3-0d3be619b61c-cropped.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-87136" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/week-15-BCO.e8f7af51-d9da-49a7-9cf3-0d3be619b61c-cropped.jpg" alt="" width="1535" height="283" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/week-15-BCO.e8f7af51-d9da-49a7-9cf3-0d3be619b61c-cropped.jpg 1535w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/week-15-BCO.e8f7af51-d9da-49a7-9cf3-0d3be619b61c-cropped-300x55.jpg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/week-15-BCO.e8f7af51-d9da-49a7-9cf3-0d3be619b61c-cropped-1024x189.jpg 1024w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/week-15-BCO.e8f7af51-d9da-49a7-9cf3-0d3be619b61c-cropped-768x142.jpg 768w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/week-15-BCO.e8f7af51-d9da-49a7-9cf3-0d3be619b61c-cropped-150x28.jpg 150w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/week-15-BCO.e8f7af51-d9da-49a7-9cf3-0d3be619b61c-cropped-500x92.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1535px) 100vw, 1535px" /></a></h1> 182<p style="text-align: center;"><b style="color: #008080; font-size: 1rem;">Click on headlines below to go direct to story: use the BACK key to return  </b></p> 183<h3 style="text-align: center;"><a class="ablue" style="font-size: 1rem;" href="#10042"><strong><span style="color: #ff0000;"><strong style="text-align: center; font-size: 1rem;"><span style="color: #0000ff;">â¦</span> ⦠⦠<span style="color: #0000ff;">⦠⦠â¦</span> ⦠⦠<span style="color: #0000ff;">â¦</span></strong></span></strong></a></h3> 184<h1><a class="ablue" href="#11907"><span style="color: #800000;">Beyond the Horizon:</span> <span style="color: #3366ff;">The infrastructure we failed to build â and the price we are now paying</span></a></h1> 185<p><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/MASTHEAD-BEYOND-THE-HORIZON-160-1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-90606" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/MASTHEAD-BEYOND-THE-HORIZON-160-1.jpg" alt="" width="160" height="160" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/MASTHEAD-BEYOND-THE-HORIZON-160-1.jpg 160w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/MASTHEAD-BEYOND-THE-HORIZON-160-1-150x150.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 160px) 100vw, 160px" /></a></p> 186<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">There is a useful question that South Africa’s freight and logistics industry should perhaps ask more often: How much of today’s infrastructure crisis was actually foreseeable 10, 15 or even 20 years ago?  Cl<span style="font-size: 1rem;">ick headline for more….</span></span></p> 187<div class="theconversation-article-body"> 188<div class="theconversation-article-body"> 189<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff; font-size: 1rem;">â¦</span><span style="color: #0000ff; font-size: 1rem;">â¦â¦</span><span style="color: #0000ff; font-size: 1rem;">â¦â¦<span style="color: #ff0000;">â¦â¦â¦</span>â¦â¦â¦</span><span style="color: #0000ff; font-size: 1rem;">â¦â¦</span></h3> 190<h2><a class="ablue" href="#11940"><strong>Three AMSOL seafarers confirmed dead after Umkhuseli rescue-boat accident</strong></a></h2> 191<p><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/UMKHUSELI-6-June-2024-1-1-Trevor-Jones-160.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-91107" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/UMKHUSELI-6-June-2024-1-1-Trevor-Jones-160.jpg" alt="" width="160" height="107" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/UMKHUSELI-6-June-2024-1-1-Trevor-Jones-160.jpg 160w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/UMKHUSELI-6-June-2024-1-1-Trevor-Jones-160-150x100.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 160px) 100v
191w, 160px" /></a></p> 192<p><span style="color: #003366;">Three AMSOL seafarers have died and two remain missing following a tragic accident involving the emergency towing vessel UMKHUSELI approximately 47 nautical miles (about 87 km) south of Mossel Bay on Wednesday morning.  Cl<span style="font-size: 1rem;">ick headline for more….</span></span></p> 193<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff; font-size: 1rem;">â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 194<h2><a class="ablue" href="#11936"><strong>Grindrod appoints Transnet rail executive to lead private freight-rail operation</strong></a></h2> 195<p><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Siyanda-Mba-120X120.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-91104" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Siyanda-Mba-120X120.jpg" alt="" width="120" height="120" /></a></p> 196<p><span style="color: #003366;">Grindrod has appointed Siyanda Mba as Chief Executive Officer of its Rail Solutions business, with effect from 1 October, bringing a senior Transnet Freight Rail executive into the leadership of one of the companies preparing to become a private operator on South Africa’s rail network.  Cl<span style="font-size: 1rem;">ick headline for more….</span></span></p> 197<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff; font-size: 1rem;">â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 198<h2><a class="ablue" href="#11935">Tight bunker supplies put Durban shipping fuel market under pressure</a></h2> 199<p><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Durban-Island-View-oil-terminal-NPA-pic-160.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-91100" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Durban-Island-View-oil-terminal-NPA-pic-160.jpg" alt="" width="160" height="120" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Durban-Island-View-oil-terminal-NPA-pic-160.jpg 160w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Durban-Island-View-oil-terminal-NPA-pic-160-100x75.jpg 100w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Durban-Island-View-oil-terminal-NPA-pic-160-150x113.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 160px) 100vw, 160px" /></a></p> 200<p><span style="color: #003366;">Marine fuel availability in Durban has tightened significantly, with ship operators being advised to allow 10 to 15 days to secure bunker supplies, according to specialist marine-fuel intelligence and procurement platform ENGINE.  Cl<span style="font-size: 1rem;">ick headline for more….</span></span></p> 201<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff; font-size: 1rem;">â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 202<h2><strong><a class="ablue" href="#11925">Salt, Spray and Duty Cycles: Protecting Electrical Connections in Modern Port Equipment</a></strong></h2> 203<p><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11925-Figure-1-Port-electrical-environment-overview-160.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-91082" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11925-Figure-1-Port-electrical-environment-overview-160.jpg" alt="" width="160" height="90" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11925-Figure-1-Port-electrical-environment-overview-160.jpg 160w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11925-Figure-1-Port-electrical-environment-overview-160-150x84.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 160px) 100vw, 160px" /></a></p> 204<p><span style="color: #003366;">Quay cranes run around the clock within sight of open water, RTGs cross yards where salt-laden air settles on every surface, and reefer racks stand in the open through sun, rain and night humidity. Engineering teams rightly concentrate on drives, hydraulics and control systems.  Cl<span style="font-size: 1rem;">ick headline for more….</span></span></p> 205<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff; font-size: 1rem;">â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 206<h2><strong><a class="ablue" href="#11928">UK MAIB report on the foundering of the St Helena-registered Argos Georgia</a></strong></h2> 207<p><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Screenshot-2026-09-29-at-12-09-19-MAIBInvReport-19_2026-Argos-Georgia-Very-Serious-Marine-Casualty-2026-19-Arg-1022-160.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-91066" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Screenshot-2026-09-29-at-12-09-19-MAIBInvReport-19_2026-Argos-Georgia-Very-Serious-Marine-Casualty-2026-19-Arg-1022-160.jpg" alt="" width="160" height="118" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Screenshot-2026-09-29-at-12-09-19-MAIBInvReport-19_2026-Argos-Georgia-Very-Serious-Marine-Casualty-2026-19-Arg-1022-160.jpg 160w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Screenshot-2026-09-29-at-12-09-19-MAIBInvReport-19_2026-Argos-Georgia-Very-Serious-Marine-Casualty-2026-19-Arg-1022-160-100x75.jpg 100w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Screenshot-2026-09-29-at-12-09-19-MAIBInvReport-19_2026-Argos-Georgia-Very-Serious-Marine-Casualty-2026-19-Arg-1022-160-150x111.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 160px) 100v
207w, 160px" /></a></p> 208<p><span style="color: #003366;">Foundering of a fishing vessel approximately 190 nautical miles east of</span><br /> 209<span style="color: #003366;">Port Stanley, Falkland Islands, with the loss of 13 lives. Text based on material kindly provided by UK MAIB    Cl<span style="font-size: 1rem;">ick headline for more….</span></span></p> 210<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff; font-size: 1rem;">â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 211<h2><a class="ablue" href="#11919"><strong>South Africa faces another fuel-price shock as Middle East crisis keeps oil above $100</strong></a></h2> 212<p><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/NCC-REEM-KEITH-BETTS-IMG_3397-160.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-91032" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/NCC-REEM-KEITH-BETTS-IMG_3397-160.jpg" alt="" width="160" height="107" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/NCC-REEM-KEITH-BETTS-IMG_3397-160.jpg 160w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/NCC-REEM-KEITH-BETTS-IMG_3397-160-150x100.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 160px) 100vw, 160px" /></a></p> 213<p><span style="color: #003366;">South African motorists are facing the prospect of another sharp fuel-price increase next week, with the latest Central Energy Fund figures pointing towards an increase of around R3 a litre for petrol if current international oil and refined-product prices persist through the end of September. </span>  <span style="color: #003366;">Cl<span style="font-size: 1rem;">ick headline for more….</span></span></p> 214<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff; font-size: 1rem;">â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 215<h2><a class="ablue" href="#11923"><strong>Nigeria expands port renewal programme beyond Lagos</strong></a></h2> 216<p><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Onne-Multipurpose-Terminal-Picture-ICTSI-160.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-91027" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Onne-Multipurpose-Terminal-Picture-ICTSI-160.jpg" alt="" width="160" height="91" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Onne-Multipurpose-Terminal-Picture-ICTSI-160.jpg 160w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Onne-Multipurpose-Terminal-Picture-ICTSI-160-150x85.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 160px) 100vw, 160px" /></a></p> 217<p><span style="color: #003366;">Nigeriaâs Federal Government has approved the comprehensive modernisation and upgrading of four major ports outside Lagos, in a move aimed at reducing the countryâs heavy dependence on the Lagos port complex and creating a more balanced national maritime network.  Cl<span style="font-size: 1rem;">ick headline for more….</span></span></p> 218<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff; font-size: 1rem;">â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 219<h2><strong><a class="ablue" href="#11903">DP World and Ogun sign agreements for $7bn deep-sea port and logistics zone</a></strong></h2> 220<p><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/ogun-state-Nigeria-source-unocha.org-ID-160.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-91024" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/ogun-state-Nigeria-source-unocha.org-ID-160.jpg" alt="" width="160" height="113" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/ogun-state-Nigeria-source-unocha.org-ID-160.jpg 160w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/ogun-state-Nigeria-source-unocha.org-ID-160-150x106.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 160px) 100vw, 160px" /></a></p> 221<p><span style="color: #003366;">DP World and Nigeriaâs Ogun State have signed agreements covering the development of a new deep-sea port and a major special economic zone, in a proposed investment programme valued at more than US$7 billion. </span>  <span style="color: #003366;">Cl<span style="font-size: 1rem;">ick headline for more…
221.</span></span></p> 222<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff; font-size: 1rem;">â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 223<h2><a class="ablue" href="#11918"><strong>India’s Texmaco secures $135 million locomotive order for South Africa</strong></a></h2> 224<p><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Texmaco-Wabtac-loco-possible-designed-for-APS-by-AI-160.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-91014" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Texmaco-Wabtac-loco-possible-designed-for-APS-by-AI-160.jpg" alt="" width="160" height="88" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Texmaco-Wabtac-loco-possible-designed-for-APS-by-AI-160.jpg 160w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Texmaco-Wabtac-loco-possible-designed-for-APS-by-AI-160-150x83.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 160px) 100vw, 160px" /></a></p> 225<p><span style="color: #003366;">Indian rail engineering company Texmaco Rail & Engineering has secured a US$135 million order to supply diesel-electric locomotives to South Africa, adding further substance to the country’s opening of its freight rail network to private train operators.  Cl<span style="font-size: 1rem;">ick headline for more….</span></span></p> 226<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff; font-size: 1rem;">â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 227<h2><strong><a class="ablue" href="#11924">French Navy ship on patrol, visits Durban</a></strong></h2> 228<p><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/AUGUSTE-TECHER-RF-26-September-2026-2-Trevor-Jones-160.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-91010" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/AUGUSTE-TECHER-RF-26-September-2026-2-Trevor-Jones-160.jpg" alt="" width="160" height="107" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/AUGUSTE-TECHER-RF-26-September-2026-2-Trevor-Jones-160.jpg 160w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/AUGUSTE-TECHER-RF-26-September-2026-2-Trevor-Jones-160-150x100.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 160px) 100vw, 160px" /></a></p> 229<p><span style="color: #003366;">One of the French Navy’s newest overseas patrol vessels, the Auguste Techer (P781), made a call at Durban last week during her operations in the western Indian Ocean. Based at Port des Galets on La Réunion, the 80-metre vessel is the third of six new Félix Ãboué-class Patrouilleurs Outre-Mer (POM) being introduced by the French Navy to strengthen its permanent presence in France’s overseas territories.  Cl<span style="font-size: 1rem;">ick headline for more….</span></span></p> 230<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff; font-size: 1rem;">â¦</span><span style="color: #0000ff; font-size: 1rem;">â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 231<h2><strong><a class="ablue" href="#11916">Heavy machinery arrives at Lamu for $17bn Dangote refinery</a></strong></h2> 232<p><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11544-DANGOTE-COMES-TO-LAMU-1dd903b2-e42d-4e66-a808-b1a57a6873ee-160.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-90999" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11544-DANGOTE-COMES-TO-LAMU-1dd903b2-e42d-4e66-a808-b1a57a6873ee-160.jpg" alt="" width="160" height="107" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11544-DANGOTE-COMES-TO-LAMU-1dd903b2-e42d-4e66-a808-b1a57a6873ee-160.jpg 160w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11544-DANGOTE-COMES-TO-LAMU-1dd903b2-e42d-4e66-a808-b1a57a6873ee-160-150x100.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 160px) 100vw, 160px" /></a></p> 233<p><span style="color: #003366;">Construction of the long-planned US$17 billion Dangote East Africa Refinery has moved into its mobilisation phase, with the Port of Lamu receiving its first major shipment of project cargo ahead of the facility’s scheduled groundbreaking on 30 September. Cl<span style="font-size: 1rem;">ick headline for more…
233.</span></span></p> 234<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff; font-size: 1rem;">â¦</span><span style="color: #0000ff; font-size: 1rem;">â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 235<h2><a class="ablue" href="#11921"><strong>Douala adds 40,000 tonnes of grain storage capacity</strong></a></h2> 236<p><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/port-douala-1-160.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-90988" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/port-douala-1-160.jpg" alt="" width="160" height="90" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/port-douala-1-160.jpg 160w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/port-douala-1-160-150x84.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 160px) 100vw, 160px" /></a></p> 237<p><span style="color: #003366;">The Port Authority of Douala (PAD) has completed a new grain-handling and storage complex at the Port of Douala-Bonabéri in Cameroon, adding 40,000 tonnes of cereal storage capacity to one of Central Africa’s principal maritime gateways.  Cl<span style="font-size: 1rem;">ick headline for more….</span></span></p> 238<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff; font-size: 1rem;">â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 239<h2><strong><a class="ablue" href="#11910">Ngqura manganese corridor investment could reach R44bn</a></strong></h2> 240<p><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Hotazel-25-2-TFR-photo-of-manganese-train-160.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-90974" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Hotazel-25-2-TFR-photo-of-manganese-train-160.jpg" alt="" width="160" height="103" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Hotazel-25-2-TFR-photo-of-manganese-train-160.jpg 160w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Hotazel-25-2-TFR-photo-of-manganese-train-160-150x97.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 160px) 100vw, 160px" /></a></p> 241<p><span style="color: #003366;">Transnet’s detailed RFQ (see article ‘Transnet launches private-sector process for Ngqura manganese corridor’ also in this issue) reveals a proposed 1,100-km integrated rail and port operation, with private-sector partners expected to finance infrastructure rehabilitation, rail operations and a new manganese export terminal.  </span><span style="color: #003366;">Cl<span style="font-size: 1rem;">ick headline for more….</span></span></p> 242<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff; font-size: 1rem;">â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 243<h2><a class="ablue" href="#11905"><strong>SAPREF: From R1 sale to R117-billion refinery revival plan</strong></a></h2> 244<p><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Sapref-Refinery.-Pictre-Sapref-via-Linkedin-160.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-90971" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Sapref-Refinery.-Pictre-Sapref-via-Linkedin-160.jpg" alt="" width="160" height="80" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Sapref-Refinery.-Pictre-Sapref-via-Linkedin-160.jpg 160w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Sapref-Refinery.-Pictre-Sapref-via-Linkedin-160-150x75.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 160px) 100vw, 160px" /></a></p> 245<p><span style="color: #003366;">The prospect of South Africa once again refining crude oil at Durban’s former SAPREF refinery has returned to the national agenda, but the proposal now being advanced by Mineral and Petroleum Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe is a very different proposition from simply restarting a refinery that was switched off four years ago.  </span><span style="color: #003366;">Cl<span style="font-size: 1rem;">ick headline for more….</span></span></p> 246<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff; font-size: 1rem;">â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 247<h2><a class="ablue" href="#11917"><strong>World Maritime Day 2026: From Policy to Practice</strong></a></h2> 248<p><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/WMD-2026-IMO-HQ-in-blue-160.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-90977" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/WMD-2026-IMO-HQ-in-blue-160.jpg" alt="" width="160" height="120" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/WMD-2026-IMO-HQ-in-blue-160.jpg 160w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/WMD-2026-IMO-HQ-in-blue-160-100x75.jpg 100w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/WMD-2026-IMO-HQ-in-blue-160-150x113.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 160px) 100v
248w, 160px" /></a></p> 249<p><span style="color: #003366;">Global regulations will deliver safer, more resilient shipping when they are implemented worldwide. On 24 September the international maritime community marked World Maritime Day as shipping continues to face the direct impacts of wider geopolitical tensions and conflict.  Cl<span style="font-size: 1rem;">ick headline for more….</span></span></p> 250<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff; font-size: 1rem;">â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 251<h2><a class="ablue" href="#11906">Global disruption puts resilience of maritime trade in focus â DP World</a></h2> 252<p><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/800_02dpworldjebelali_sailingwithtugboat-160.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-90967" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/800_02dpworldjebelali_sailingwithtugboat-160.jpg" alt="" width="160" height="90" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/800_02dpworldjebelali_sailingwithtugboat-160.jpg 160w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/800_02dpworldjebelali_sailingwithtugboat-160-150x84.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 160px) 100vw, 160px" /></a></p> 253<p><span style="color: #003366;">DP World says geopolitical tensions, climate pressures, changing trade policies and the geographical redistribution of manufacturing are reshaping global cargo flows and increasing the need for more adaptable shipping networks. </span>  <span style="color: #003366;">Cl<span style="font-size: 1rem;">ick headline for more….</span></span></p> 254<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff; font-size: 1rem;">â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 255<h2><a class="ablue" href="#11908"><strong>Mpungu opens a new chapter for Lake Victoria shipping</strong></a></h2> 256<p><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/EAMT_002-MPUNGU-160.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-90963" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/EAMT_002-MPUNGU-160.jpg" alt="" width="160" height="114" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/EAMT_002-MPUNGU-160.jpg 160w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/EAMT_002-MPUNGU-160-150x107.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 160px) 100vw, 160px" /></a></p> 257<p><span style="color: #003366;">The MV MPUNGU, the purpose-built roll-on/roll-off freight vessel that has been pioneering scheduled cargo shipping on Lake Victoria, has made its first cargo delivery to Bukoba in Tanzania, adding another destination to what is becoming an increasingly important inland waterway network. </span>  <span style="color: #003366;">Cl<span style="font-size: 1rem;">ick headline for more….</span></span></p> 258<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff; font-size: 1rem;">â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 259<h2><a class="ablue" href="#11902">Transnet launches private-sector process for Ngqura manganese corridor</a></h2> 260<div class="theconversation-article-body"> 261<div class="theconversation-article-body"> 262<p><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Manganese-Terminal-Port-Elizabeth-TPT-pic-160.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-90948" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Manganese-Terminal-Port-Elizabeth-TPT-pic-160.jpg" alt="" width="160" height="107" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Manganese-Terminal-Port-Elizabeth-TPT-pic-160.jpg 160w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Manganese-Terminal-Port-Elizabeth-TPT-pic-160-150x100.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 160px) 100vw, 160px" /></a></p> 263<p><span style="color: #003366;">Transnet has taken a major step towards establishing a dedicated manganese export facility at the Port of Ngqura, issuing a Request for Qualification (RFQ) for a private-sector strategic partner to develop and operate the proposed Ngqura Manganese Export Corridor (NMEC) for 25 years.  Cl<span style="font-size: 1rem;">ick headline for more…
263.</span></span></p> 264<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff; font-size: 1rem;">â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 265</div> 266</div> 267<h2><strong><a class="ablue" href="#11879">Batavia returns to the dock where her story began</a></strong></h2> 268<p><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Batavia-langs-het-centrum-van-Amsterdam-160.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-90939" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Batavia-langs-het-centrum-van-Amsterdam-160.jpg" alt="" width="160" height="107" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Batavia-langs-het-centrum-van-Amsterdam-160.jpg 160w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Batavia-langs-het-centrum-van-Amsterdam-160-150x100.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 160px) 100vw, 160px" /></a></p> 269<p><span style="color: #003366;">There was a time when ships like Batavia would have been a familiar sight in Table Bay. The great Dutch East India Company retourschepen â heavily built sailing ships carrying cargo, passengers and supplies between the Netherlands and the Dutch East Indies â regularly called at the Cape of Good Hope during the long voyage between Europe and Asia.  Cl<span style="font-size: 1rem;">ick headline for more….</span></span></p> 270<div class="theconversation-article-body"> 271<div class="theconversation-article-body"> 272<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff; font-size: 1rem;">â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 273</div> 274</div> 275<h2><a class="ablue" href="#11897"><strong>Maritime Single Window implementation – IMO seeks feedback</strong></a></h2> 276<p><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TAKE-THE-SURVEY-Maritime-Single-Window-Evaluation_banner-1-1-160.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-90933" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TAKE-THE-SURVEY-Maritime-Single-Window-Evaluation_banner-1-1-160.jpg" alt="" width="160" height="43" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TAKE-THE-SURVEY-Maritime-Single-Window-Evaluation_banner-1-1-160.jpg 160w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TAKE-THE-SURVEY-Maritime-Single-Window-Evaluation_banner-1-1-160-150x40.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 160px) 100vw, 160px" /></a></p> 277<p><span style="color: #003366;">The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has launched a global survey to assess the implementation and use of Maritime Single Windows (MSWs), inviting feedback from organisations and individuals involved in maritime information exchange.  Cl<span style="font-size: 1rem;">ick headline for more….</span></span></p> 278<div class="theconversation-article-body"> 279<div class="theconversation-article-body"> 280<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff; font-size: 1rem;">â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 281</div> 282</div> 283<h2><strong><a class="ablue" href="#11891">Tanger Med handles 84 Mt in first half as shipping networks adjust to Suez recovery</a></strong></h2> 284<p><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Tanger-MED-pic-6-Tanger-Med-Port-Authority-pic-160.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-90930" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Tanger-MED-pic-6-Tanger-Med-Port-Authority-pic-160.jpg" alt="" width="160" height="90" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Tanger-MED-pic-6-Tanger-Med-Port-Authority-pic-160.jpg 160w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Tanger-MED-pic-6-Tanger-Med-Port-Authority-pic-160-150x84.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 160px) 100vw, 160px" /></a></p> 285<p><span style="color: #003366;">Morocco’s Tanger Med port complex handled 84 million tonnes of cargo during the first half of 2026, maintaining its strong growth trajectory while shipping lines continue adjusting networks between Asia, Europe and Africa as Suez Canal traffic gradually recovers.  Cl<span style="font-size: 1rem;">ick headline for more…
285.</span></span></p> 286<div class="theconversation-article-body"> 287<div class="theconversation-article-body"> 288<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff; font-size: 1rem;">â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 289</div> 290</div> 291<h2><a class="ablue" href="#11894"><strong>TRIM capacity statement provides new view of South Africa’s rail network</strong></a></h2> 292<p><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TNet-Ogies-0040-683x450-Pic-TRIM-160.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-90869" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TNet-Ogies-0040-683x450-Pic-TRIM-160.jpg" alt="" width="160" height="105" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TNet-Ogies-0040-683x450-Pic-TRIM-160.jpg 160w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TNet-Ogies-0040-683x450-Pic-TRIM-160-150x98.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 160px) 100vw, 160px" /></a></p> 293<p><span style="color: #003366;">Part 3 of our focus on the TRIM Statement issued this week:  </span><span style="color: #003366;">The detailed capacity calculations accompanying Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager’s new Network Statement show where additional freight train capacity could become available â and where infrastru
293cture constraints remain a limiting factor.  </span><span style="color: #003366;">Cl<span style="font-size: 1rem;">ick headline for more….</span></span></p> 294<div class="theconversation-article-body"> 295<div class="theconversation-article-body"> 296<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff; font-size: 1rem;">â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 297</div> 298</div> 299<h2><strong><a class="ablue" href="#11895">SA logistics recovery loses momentum as Durban congestion persists</a></strong></h2> 300<p><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/eMendi-Building-160.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-90919" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/eMendi-Building-160.jpg" alt="" width="160" height="115" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/eMendi-Building-160.jpg 160w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/eMendi-Building-160-150x108.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 160px) 100vw, 160px" /></a></p> 301<p><span style="color: #003366;">South Africa’s logistics recovery came under renewed pressure during the latest week, with container throughput across the country’s commercial ports falling 21% week on week to 72,837 TEUs.  </span><span style="color: #003366;">Cl<span style="font-size: 1rem;">ick headline for more….</span></span></p> 302<div class="theconversation-article-body"> 303<div class="theconversation-article-body"> 304<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff; font-size: 1rem;">â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 305</div> 306</div> 307<h2><a class="ablue" href="#11882"><strong>Egypt’s ports grow as Suez Canal traffic shows strong recovery</strong></a></h2> 308<p><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/UNCTAD-image-2024-01-26_160.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-90916" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/UNCTAD-image-2024-01-26_160.jpg" alt="" width="160" height="90" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/UNCTAD-image-2024-01-26_160.jpg 160w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/UNCTAD-image-2024-01-26_160-150x84.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 160px) 100vw, 160px" /></a></p> 309<p><span style="color: #003366;">Egyptian ports handled 233 million tonnes of cargo and 11.1 million TEUs during 2025, while August 2026 figures indicate a substantial recovery in traffic through the Suez Canal.  Cl<span style="font-size: 1rem;">ick headline for more….</span></span></p> 310<div class="theconversation-article-body"> 311<div class="theconversation-article-body"> 312<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff; font-size: 1rem;">â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 313</div> 314</div> 315<h2><a class="ablue" href="#11876"><strong>Maputo expansion opens new South African cargo opportunities</strong></a></h2> 316<p><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/20170705_122047-160-1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-90913" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/20170705_122047-160-1.jpg" alt="" width="160" height="90" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/20170705_122047-160-1.jpg 160w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/20170705_122047-160-1-150x84.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 160px) 100vw, 160px" /></a></p> 317<p><span style="color: #003366;">Grindrod is expanding its Matola terminal and preparing for larger vessels at Maputo as South Africa’s opening of the freight rail network creates opportunities for additional cargo through Mozambique.  Cl<span style="font-size: 1rem;">ick headline for more….</span></span></p> 318<div class="theconversation-article-body"> 319<div class="theconversation-article-body"> 320<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff; font-size: 1rem;">â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 321</div> 322</div> 323<h2><strong><a class="ablue" href="#11893">Chirundu border upgrade reaches financial close on key NorthâSouth Corridor</a></strong></h2> 324<p><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11893-Chirundu-Border-Crossing-160.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-90909" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11893-Chirundu-Border-Crossing-160.jpg" alt="" width="160" height="80" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11893-Chirundu-Border-Crossing-160.jpg 160w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11893-Chirundu-Border-Crossing-160-150x75.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 160px) 100v
324w, 160px" /></a></p> 325<p><span style="color: #003366;">Zimbabwe and the Chirundu Border Consortium (CBC) have reached financial close on the upgrading and modernisation of the Chirundu Border Post on the country’s border with Zambia, clearing the way for construction of the major logistics project.  Cl<span style="font-size: 1rem;">ick headline for more….</span></span></p> 326<div class="theconversation-article-body"> 327<div class="theconversation-article-body"> 328<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff; font-size: 1rem;">â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 329</div> 330</div> 331<h2><strong><a class="ablue" href="#11889">TRIM investment plan reveals scale of rail rebuilding required</a></strong></h2> 332<p><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TNet-Ogies-0040-683x450-Pic-TRIM-160.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-90869" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TNet-Ogies-0040-683x450-Pic-TRIM-160.jpg" alt="" width="160" height="105" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TNet-Ogies-0040-683x450-Pic-TRIM-160.jpg 160w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TNet-Ogies-0040-683x450-Pic-TRIM-160-150x98.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 160px) 100vw, 160px" /></a></p> 333<p><span style="color: #003366;">Part 2 of our focus on the TRIM Statement issued this week: </span><span style="color: #003366;">South Africa’s new rail infrastructure manager has an approved five-year capital programme of R46.3 billion, while pursuing a further R26 billion from National Treasury to accelerate rehabilitation of the freight network and support the country’s move towards open access.  </span><span style="color: #003366;">Cl</span><span style="color: #003366; font-size: 1rem;">ick headline for more….</span></p> 334<div class="theconversation-article-body"> 335<div class="theconversation-article-body"> 336<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff; font-size: 1rem;">â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 337</div> 338</div> 339<h2><strong><a class="ablue" href="#11885">Conakry Terminal targets more than 1m TEUs </a></strong></h2> 340<p><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Port_Autonome_Conakry_Terminal_01-160.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-90889" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Port_Autonome_Conakry_Terminal_01-160.jpg" alt="" width="160" height="107" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Port_Autonome_Conakry_Terminal_01-160.jpg 160w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Port_Autonome_Conakry_Terminal_01-160-150x100.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 160px) 100vw, 160px" /></a></p> 341<p><span style="color: #003366;">AGL-operated terminal is expanding quay and yard capacity after traffic reached 416,892 TEUs in 2025. The container terminal at Guinea’s Port of Conakry is preparing for another major expansion after traffic growth substantially exceeded earlier forecasts, with the operator targeting annual throughput of more than 1 million TEUs by 2029-2030.  Cl</span><span style="color: #003366; font-size: 1rem;">ick headline for more….</span></p> 342<div class="theconversation-article-body"> 343<div class="theconversation-article-body"> 344<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff; font-size: 1rem;">â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 345</div> 346</div> 347<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #ff0000;"><span style="color: #3366ff;">⦠⦠⦠</span>⦠⦠⦠⦠<span style="color: #3366ff;">â¦</span> ⦠⦠⦠â¦Â </span><span style="color: #3366ff;">⦠⦠â¦</span></h3> 348<aside style="border-left: 4px solid #cc0000; padding: 1em; margin: 1em 0; background-color: #f9f9f9; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"> 349<h2 style="color: #cc0000; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">Thought for the Week</h2> 350<h3 data-start="272" data-end="290"></h3> 351</aside> 352<div class="layout"> 353<h2 style="text-align: center;"><a class="ablue" href="#10042"><strong><span style="color: #ff0000;"><strong style="text-align: center; font-size: 1rem;"><span style="color: #0000ff;">â¦</span> ⦠⦠<span style="color: #0000ff;">⦠⦠â¦</span> ⦠⦠<span style="color: #0000ff;">â¦</span></strong></span></strong></a></h2> 354<div id="b_wpt_bg" class="b_wpt_bg" data-priority=""> 355<div id="sydwrap_wrapper" class="sydwrap_wrapper"> 356<div id="b_syd_supermax" class="" data-priority="2"> 357<div id="b_syd_sm_chat" class="sydwrap_sm_chat" data-sydsm="true" data-sydwrap="true" data-sydansname="WholePageTemplateCodexContainerAnswer"> 358<div class="b_wpt_chat"> 359<div class="b_wpt_chat_inner"> 360<div class="qna-mf" data-priority=""> 361<div class="b_sideBleed b_topBleed b_bottomBleed"> 362<div class="mf-item-cntr "> 363<div class="b_antiSideBleed b_antiTopBleed"> 364<div class="mf-item"> 365<div class="ans-itm-cntr qna-df qna-aggr-genItems "> 366<div class="author"> 367<section class="elementor-section elementor-inner-section elementor-element elementor-element-1b6eb8b elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default" data-id="1b6eb8b" data-element_type="section"> 368<div class="elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default"> 369<div class="elementor-column elementor-col-33 elementor-inner-column elementor-element elementor-element-511dc50" data-id="511dc50" data-element_type="column"> 370<div class="elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated"> 371<div class="elementor-element elementor-element-107017ba elementor-widget elementor-widget-theme-post-content" data-id="107017ba" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="theme-post-content.default"> 372<div class="elementor-widget-container" style="text-align: left;"> 373<div id="dpsp-content-bottom" class="dpsp-content-wrapper dpsp-shape-rectangular dpsp-size-large dpsp-has-s
373pacing dpsp-no-labels dpsp-hide-on-mobile dpsp-button-style-1"> 374<h3 style="text-align: center;"><a style="font-size: 1rem;" href="https://www.isleofcapri.co.za" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-62700" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/IMG-20240819-WA0001-cropped.jpg" alt="" width="700" height="130" /></a></h3> 375</div> 376<h3 style="text-align: center;"><a class="ablue" style="font-size: 1rem;" href="#10042"><strong><span style="color: #ff0000;"><strong style="text-align: center; font-size: 1rem;"><span style="color: #0000ff;">â¦</span> ⦠⦠<span style="color: #0000ff;">⦠⦠â¦</span> ⦠⦠<span style="color: #0000ff;">â¦</span></strong></span></strong></a></h3> 377</div> 378</div> 379</div> 380</div> 381</div> 382</section> 383</div> 384</div> 385</div> 386</div> 387</div> 388</div> 389</div> 390</div> 391</div> 392</div> 393</div> 394</div> 395</div> 396</div> 397<p style="text-align: left;">News continues below</p> 398<div id="11907" style="text-align: left;"></div> 399<h1 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #ff0000;"><span style="font-size: xx-large;"><b><span style="color: #800000;">Beyond the Horizon:</span><span style="color: #3366ff;"> The infrastructure we failed to build â and the price we are now paying</span></b></span></span></h1> 400<p><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/MASTHEAD-BEYOND-THE-HORIZON-275-1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-90607" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/MASTHEAD-BEYOND-THE-HORIZON-275-1.jpg" alt="" width="275" height="275" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/MASTHEAD-BEYOND-THE-HORIZON-275-1.jpg 275w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/MASTHEAD-BEYOND-THE-HORIZON-275-1-150x150.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 275px) 100vw, 275px" /></a></p> 401<p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="color: #003366;">There is a useful question that South Africa’s freight and logistics industry should perhaps ask more often:</span></strong></p> 402<p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="color: #003366;">How much of today’s infrastructure crisis was actually foreseeable 10, 15 or even 20 years ago?</span></strong></p> 403<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">Not everything, of course. Economies change, technologies change, trade routes change and events occur that nobody could reasonably have anticipated. Container ships grew in size and capacity beyond every expectation.</span></p> 404<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">But some of today’s problems did not arrive unexpectedly.</span></p> 405<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">They developed slowly, sometimes in full view, while decisions were postponed, investment was deferred or infrastru
405cture was designed for the requirements of an earlier generation.</span></p> 406<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">And that raises an even more important question:</span></p> 407<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">What are we failing to see today that could become tomorrow’s logistics crisis?</span></p> 408<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">That is perhaps the real lesson to be drawn from South Africa’s long and difficult logistics recovery.</span></p> 409<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">The railway is perhaps the clearest example</span></p> 410<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">Consider the country’s freight railway.</span></p> 411<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">South Africa once possessed one of the most sophisticated freight railway systems in the developing world, built around the country’s mining, agricultural and industrial economy. But much of the network subsequently suffered from under-investment, deterioration, theft, vandalism and operational constraints.</span></p> 412<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">The consequences have been enormous: freight that should have moved by rail shifted to road, logistics costs increased and congestion migrated from the railway to the country’s highways and ports.</span></p> 413<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">Government now openly acknowledges the scale of the problem. The draft National Rail Master Plan is intended to provide a long-term framework for revitalising, expanding and modernising the railway system over the coming decades.</span></p> 414<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">More encouragingly, the country is no longer simply discussing reform.</span></p> 415<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">The first 11 private freight train operators have been approved for access to the national network, with operations expected to begin in April 2027. Government says those operators could collectively move up to 24 million tonnes a year.</span></p> 416<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">That is an important change.</span></p> 417<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">But it also illustrates the central point: opening a railway to more operators is only useful if there is a railway capable of carrying the additional traffic.</span></p> 418<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">The manganese corridor offers another lesson</span></p> 419<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">The recently issued RFQ for the Ngqura Manganese Export Corridor provides an unusually revealing example.</span></p> 420<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">The proposed private-sector partnership is not simply about constructing a new manganese terminal at Ngqura. The project recognises that the terminal cannot reach its potential unless the railway, rolling stock, infrastru
420cture and operating system can deliver the cargo to the port.</span></p> 421<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">That is why the proposed project encompasses an approximately 1,100-kilometre corridor, rather than simply a piece of port infrastructure.</span></p> 422<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">And buried within the detail is a reminder of how long some infrastructure questions can survive.</span></p> 423<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">The corridor’s existing crossing-loop configuration limits train lengths, while earlier plans for the development of the Ngqura manganese system envisaged considerably longer trains.</span></p> 424<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">The point is not that somebody necessarily made the wrong decision at the time. Infrastructure decisions are always made within the financial, technical and operational circumstances of their day.</span></p> 425<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">
425The lesson is that infrastructure has to be designed with enough foresight to accommodate the next generation of demand.</span></p> 426<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">It is not only a Durban container problem</span></p> 427<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">The same principle applies to all South Africa’s container ports.</span></p> 428<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">Durban has experienced its well-publicised combination of terminal congestion, landside constraints, rail limitations and inadequate evacuation capacity.</span></p> 429<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">But Cape Town provides an equally important reminder that every port has its own vulnerabilities.</span></p> 430<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">Its container operation has different characteristics and different demands, including the particular pressures associated with refrigerated cargo. The challenge is not simply to provide more container capacity; it is to understand how the cargo mix itself is changing and whether the infrastructure serving that cargo will remain adequate.</span></p> 431<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">Then there’s the wind factor.</span></p> 432<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">That distinction matters.</span></p> 433<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">A container terminal can have sufficient quay length and still have a problem somewhere else in the logistics chain.</span></p> 434<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">A railway can have theoretical capacity but lack the locomotives, wagons, signalling or reliable infrastructure required to use it.</span></p> 435<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">A port can have additional berths but inadequate landside evacuation.</span></p> 436<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">And a road can be widened only to discover that the bottleneck has simply moved further along the corridor.</span></p> 437<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">We have been learning this lesson the hard way</span></p> 438<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">The good news is that South Africa’s current reform programme is beginning to recognise the problem as a system, rather than a collection of unrelated infrastructure projects.</span></p> 439<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">The government’s freight logistics programme explicitly links rail, ports, inland terminals and corridors, while private-sector participation is being introduced into both rail and port operations.</span></p> 440<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">The draft National Rail Master Plan also represents an attempt to move away from short-term interventions towards a longer-term planning framework, with the intention that network capacity, asset condition, freight flows and rolling-stock requirements should be maintained as an ongoing planning database.</span></p> 441<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">That is a significant change in philosophy.</span></p> 442<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">And it is one worth encouraging.</span></p> 443<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">But the horizon needs to be longer still</span></p> 444<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">The danger now is that, after years of crisis management, we become so focused on fixing what is broken that we forget to ask what the country will need after it has been fixed.</span></p> 445<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">The immediate priority is understandably to recover rail volumes, improve port productivity, reduce congestion and restore reliability.</span></p> 446<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">But recovery is not the same as transformation.</span></p> 447<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">If South Africa is going to increase exports, attract manufacturing investment, support agriculture, expand regional trade and position itself as a logistics gateway into Africa, then infrastru
447cture must be designed around those ambitions.</span></p> 448<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">That means asking difficult questions before the bottlenecks appear.</span></p> 449<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">Will today’s crossing loops accommodate tomorrow’s trains?</span></p> 450<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">Will today’s container terminals accommodate tomorrow’s vessels and cargo mix?</span></p> 451<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">Will refrigerated cargo infrastructure keep pace with agricultural exports?</span></p> 452<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">Will inland terminals have sufficient capacity?</span></p> 453<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">Will rail capacity grow at the same rate as port capacity?</span></p> 454<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">And perhaps most importantly:</span></p> 455<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">Where is the next bottleneck going to be?</span></p> 456<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">If we can answer that question before it becomes obvious to everybody, we will have achieved something that has often eluded infrastructure planning in the past.</span></p> 457<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">The objective should not be to build yesterday’s infrastructure better.</span></p> 458<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">It should be to build tomorrow’s infrastructure before tomorrow arrives.</span></p> 459<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">That, ultimately, is what looking beyond the horizon should mean.</span></p> 460<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #003366;">Terry Hutson <a style="color: #003366;" href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/DSC_0149-3-110.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-89583" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/DSC_0149-3-110.jpg" alt="" width="110" height="146" /></a></span><br /> 461<span style="color: #003366;"><strong><span style="color: #ff0000;"><em>Africa</em></span> Ports & Ships</strong></span></p> 462<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #993300;">Added 27 September 2026</span></p> 463<p> </p> 464<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #3366ff;"> â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦<span style="color: #ff0000;">â¦â¦â¦</span></span><span style="color: #3366ff;">â¦â¦â¦</span><span style="color: #3366ff;">â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 465</div> 466<p>News continues below</p> 467<div id="11940"></div> 468<p><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: xx-large;"><b>Three AMSOL seafarers confirmed dead after Umkhuseli rescue-boat accident</b></span></span></p> 469<figure id="attachment_91108" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-91108" style="width: 1500px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/UMKHUSELI-6-June-2024-1-1-Trevor-Jones-1500.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-91108" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/UMKHUSELI-6-June-2024-1-1-Trevor-Jones-1500.jpg" alt="" width="1500" height="998" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/UMKHUSELI-6-June-2024-1-1-Trevor-Jones-1500.jpg 1500w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/UMKHUSELI-6-June-2024-1-1-Trevor-Jones-1500-300x200.jpg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/UMKHUSELI-6-June-2024-1-1-Trevor-Jones-1500-1024x681.jpg 1024w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/UMKHUSELI-6-June-2024-1-1-Trevor-Jones-1500-768x511.jpg 768w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/UMKHUSELI-6-June-2024-1-1-Trevor-Jones-1500-420x280.jpg 420w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/UMKHUSELI-6-June-2024-1-1-Trevor-Jones-1500-150x100.jpg 150w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/UMKHUSELI-6-June-2024-1-1-Trevor-Jones-1500-500x333.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100v
469w, 1500px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-91108" class="wp-caption-text"><span style="font-size: xx-small; color: #003366;"> The offshore/supply tug UMKHUSELI during a visit to Durban.  Picture: Trevor Jones   Click image to enlarge</span></figcaption></figure> 470<p><span style="color: #003366;"><strong><em><span style="color: #ff0000;">Africa</span></em> Ports & Ships</strong></span></p> 471<p><strong><span style="color: #333333;">Three AMSOL seafarers have died and two remain missing following a tragic accident involving the emergency towing vessel UMKHUSELI approximately 47 nautical miles (about 87 km) south of Mossel Bay on Wednesday morning.</span></strong></p> 472<p>The three deceased seafarers were recovered during the search and rescue operation and have been confirmed as members of the Umkhuseli crew. The search for the two remaining missing seafarers has now been suspended as an active SAR operation, although AMSOL’s offshore support vessel Inkanyezi remains in the area monitoring the site.</p> 473<p>According to preliminary information released by the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA), the incident began when a crew member reportedly fell overboard while working on deck.</p> 474<p>A Fast Rescue Boat (FRB) carrying four crew members was then launched from Umkhuseli to recover the person in the water. The rescue boat subsequently capsized, resulting in a total of five people entering the sea.</p> 475<p>The Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Cape Town was notified and immediately activated a coordinated search and rescue response. Vessels in the vicinity were diverted to assist, while the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) and South African Police Service water-wing and helicopter resources also participated in the search. Three bodies were subsequently recovered.</p> 476<p>SAMSA has begun a preliminary enquiry into the incident. The authority has not yet disclosed the circumstances surrounding the initial man-overboard incident or the subsequent capsizing of the rescue boat, and those matters will form part of the investigation.</p> 477<p>AMSOL Chief Executive Officer Dan Ngakane said the company was in direct contact with the families of all five affected seafarers and was providing support and regular updates as confirmed information became available.</p> 478<p>“It is with a deep sense of sadness that we confirm the passing of three of our much loved and respected colleagues,” Ngakane said. “Our thoughts are with family members, loved ones and the entire AMSOL community during this extremely challenging time.”</p> 479<p>AMSOL said its onboard emergency-response procedures were activated immediately following the incident and that the MRCC coordinated the subsequent search and recovery operation.</p> 480<h2><span style="color: #333333;"><strong>Umkhuseli’s role</strong></span></h2> 481<p>The tragedy occurred while Umkhuseli was engaged in safety-standby operations near the FA Platform, the offshore oil and gas production facility situated south of Mossel Bay.</p> 482<p>The 83-metre offshore tug/supply vessel is operated by AMSOL under its marine emergency-response arrangements with the Department of Transport and SAMSA. The vessel provides emergency towing, marine emergency response, search and rescue, salvage and environmental-protection services and is maintained on call around the South African coast.</p> 483<p>Umkhuseli has also been used extensively in recent years in emergency and salvage operations. Among other duties, she has responded to disabled vessels, provided emergency standby and conducted towage operations along the South African coast. Her role includes providing an important emergency-towing capability for vessels in difficulties before they become a threat to the coastline or marine environment.</p> 484<p>The FA Platform itself lies approximately 73 km offshore in water about 113 metres deep and has historically been associated with offshore natural-gas production and the Mossel Bay energy industry.</p> 485<p>The accident is now the subject of a formal maritime safety investigation. Until that enquiry has established the circumstances, the precise cause of the man-overboard incident and the subsequent capsizing of the rescue boat remains undetermined.</p> 486<p>For the families and colleagues of the five seafarers involved, however, the immediate reality is already clear: three lives have been lost and two people remain missing at sea.</p> 487<p><span style="color: #993300;">Added 1 October 2026</span></p> 488<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #3366ff;"> â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 489<p>News continues below</p> 490<div id="11936"></div> 491<p><span style="color: #003366;"><span style="font-size: xx-large;"><b>Grindrod appoints Transnet rail executive to lead private freight-rail operation</b></span></span></p> 492<p><strong><span style="color: #003366;"><span style="color: #ff0000;"><em>Africa</em></span> Ports & Ships</span></strong></p> 493<p><strong><span style="color: #003366;">Grindrod has appointed Siyanda Mba as Chief Executive Officer of its Rail Solutions business, with effect from 1 October, bringing a senior Transnet Freight Rail executive into the leadership of one of the companies preparing to become a private operator on South Africa’s rail network.</span></strong></p> 494<figure id="attachment_91105" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-91105" style="width: 200px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Siyanda-Mba-1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-91105" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Siyanda-Mba-1.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="200" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Siyanda-Mba-1.jpg 200w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Siyanda-Mba-1-150x150.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 200px) 100v
494w, 200px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-91105" class="wp-caption-text"><span style="font-size: xx-small; color: #003366;"> Siyanda Mba, ceo of Grindrod Rail Solutions</span></figcaption></figure> 495<p>Mba brings more than 25 years’ experience across manufacturing, logistics and rail to Grindrod. Her appointment comes as the Durban-based logistics group prepares to launch its first operations under South Africa’s new open-access freight-rail regime.</p> 496<p>Her most recent position at Transnet Freight Rail was General Manager: Manganese, a strategically important business covering the movement of manganese from the Northern Cape mining region to export terminals. Transnet’s current leadership directory lists Mba in that position.</p> 497<p>Her Transnet career has also included senior operational and continuous-improvement responsibilities in other freight businesses, including steel and cement and the containers and automotive sectors. Her background therefore spans both bulk commodity and general freight operations rather than being confined to a single rail commodity or corridor.</p> 498<p>That experience is particularly relevant to Grindrod’s plans.</p> 499<p>The company signed a Rail Access Agreement with Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM) in May, formally gaining access to the state-owned rail network under the open-access programme. Grindrod has been allocated two weekly slots on the North-East Corridor, initially to move coal from Mpumalanga to its Matola terminal in Mozambique. The company has set a first-year target of about 288,000 tonnes.</p> 500<p>Grindrod expects the first operations under the agreement to commence in 2027, subject to completion of the remaining operational and contractual requirements.</p> 501<p>The appointment is significant beyond the normal movement of an executive between companies. Mba is moving from the organisation that owns and manages much of the country’s freight-rail operating expertise to a company that will become a private user and operator within the same national rail system.</p> 502<p>Grindrod has been building its rail capability for several years. In 2024 it returned 13 locomotives to South Africa after they had been used to haul more than 18 million tonnes of iron ore in Sierra Leone over three years, demonstrating its experience in heavy-haul operations outside the Transnet network.</p> 503<p>The company’s open-access strategy is also closely connected to its port and terminal operations. Grindrod regards rail as an important means of feeding cargo into its terminals, including its Matola terminal in Mozambique, where the group handled record volumes in 2025. Its 2025 annual report says the company sees rail as an enabler of its port and terminals business and is focused on increasing inbound capacity and relieving logistics bottlenecks.</p> 504<p>Mba’s appointment consequently comes at an important stage in South Africa’s freight-rail reform. Grindrod is among the private-sector companies seeking to demonstrate that additional operators can use Transnet’s infrastructure to move freight alongside the state-owned freight operation.</p> 505<p>Her knowledge of Transnet’s operating environment, combined with experience in manganese, other freight businesses and operational improvement, gives the new Rail Solutions CEO direct experience of the system in which Grindrod is now seeking to establish itself.</p> 506<p>For Grindrod, the immediate challenge is relatively modest in volume â 288,000 tonnes in the first year â but strategically important: establishing a reliable private freight-rail operation that can subsequently be expanded as access to the national network develops.</p> 507<p><span style="color: #993300;">Added 1 October 2026</span></p> 508<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #3366ff;"> â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 509<p>News continues below</p> 510<div id="11935"></div> 511<p><span style="color: #000080;"><span style="font-size: xx-large;"><b>Tight bunker supplies put Durban shipping fuel market under pressure</b></span></span></p> 512<figure id="attachment_91102" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-91102" style="width: 1500px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Island-View-berth-5-DSC_9916-1500.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-91102" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Island-View-berth-5-DSC_9916-1500.jpg" alt="" width="1500" height="993" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Island-View-berth-5-DSC_9916-1500.jpg 1500w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Island-View-berth-5-DSC_9916-1500-300x200.jpg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Island-View-berth-5-DSC_9916-1500-1024x678.jpg 1024w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Island-View-berth-5-DSC_9916-1500-768x508.jpg 768w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Island-View-berth-5-DSC_9916-1500-150x99.jpg 150w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Island-View-berth-5-DSC_9916-1500-500x331.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100v
512w, 1500px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-91102" class="wp-caption-text"><span style="font-size: xx-small; color: #003366;"> Durbanâs Island View liquid fuel complex.  Picture: Russell Cleaver</span></figcaption></figure> 513<p><span style="color: #003366;"><strong><span style="color: #ff0000;"><em>Africa</em></span> Ports & Ships</strong></span></p> 514<p><strong>Marine fuel availability in Durban has tightened significantly, with ship operators being advised to allow 10 to 15 days to secure bunker supplies, according to specialist marine-fuel intelligence and procurement platform ENGINE.</strong></p> 515<p>In its latest Europe and Africa fuel-availability report, published on 30 September, ENGINE said one supplier had reported “extremely tight” fuel availability in Durban. Availability in Cape Town was also expected to remain tight until 4 October, while supplies were reported to be comparatively better at Richards Bay and Algoa Bay.</p> 516<p>The report covers the principal grades of marine fuel, including very-low-sulphur fuel oil (VLSFO), high-sulphur fuel oil (HSFO) and marine gasoil.</p> 517<p>The warning is significant for Durban because the port is South Africa’s principal commercial port and an important bunkering location on the Cape shipping route. Ships calling for cargo operations commonly take on marine fuel while in port, making fuel availability and delivery lead times an operational consideration for ship operators and agents.</p> 518<p>ENGINE’s assessment is supported by a pattern of reports over recent months. In June, the platform reported tight availability for prompt deliveries in Durban and advised buyers to book bunker stems at least five to seven days ahead. By 22 September, the recommended lead time had increased to 10â15 days.</p> 519<p>There has also been a marked price differential.</p> 520<p>On 30 September, ENGINE reported Durban VLSFO at a premium of US$162 a tonne over Port Louis in Mauritius and US$256 a tonne over supplies available off Walvis Bay, Namibia. Durban’s VLSFO was also about US$45 a tonne more expensive than the equivalent fuel at Richards Bay.</p> 521<p>ENGINE reported that the price movements were occurring against a broader decline in bunker prices at several European and African ports, while Durban was moving in the opposite direction.</p> 522<p>The platform’s assessment comes from information supplied by market participants rather than from any formal announcement. ENGINE describes itself as a marine-fuel technology, procurement and intelligence platform, collecting bunker prices, fuel-quality information and market intelligence from suppliers, traders and other participants in the sector.</p> 523<p>The Durban situation therefore should not be interpreted as the port being without bunker fuel. Rather, the available market information points to tight prompt availability and longer lead times for securing supplies, with the effect also reflected in Durban’s comparatively high bunker prices.</p> 524<p>Weather may add a further complication. ENGINE reported forecasts of winds exceeding 25 knots and swells of up to two metres in the Durban area on 1â2 October, conditions that could affect bunkering operations.</p> 525<p>For ship operators planning calls at Durban, the immediate implication is straightforward: bunker requirements need to be arranged considerably further in advance than has normally been necessary.</p> 526<p><span style="color: #993300;">Added 1 October 2026</span></p> 527<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #3366ff;"> â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 528<p>News continues below</p> 529<h3><span style="color: #666699;">Technical…..</span></h3> 530<div id="11925"></div> 531<p><span style="color: #ff0000;"><span style="font-size: xx-large;"><b><span style="color: #800000;">Salt, Spray and Duty Cycles:</span> <span style="color: #333399;">Protecting Electrical Connections in Modern Port Equipment</span></b></span></span></p> 532<p><span style="color: #003366;"><strong><span style="color: #ff0000;"><em>Africa</em></span> Ports & Ships</strong></span></p> 533<p><span style="color: #333399;">by <strong>Dennis Chiang</strong></span></p> 534<p><span style="color: #666699;"><i>A container terminal is among the more demanding places an electrical system can work. Reliability programmes concentrate on drives, hydraulics and controls â while the connectors between them are left to fail intermittently.</i></span></p> 535<h2><span style="color: #333399;"><strong>The Harsh Reality of Port Electrical Systems</strong></span></h2> 536<p>Quay cranes run around the clock within sight of open water, RTGs cross yards where salt-laden air settles on every surface, and reefer racks stand in the open through sun, rain and night humidity. Engineering teams rightly concentrate on drives, hydraulics and control systems.<br /> 537Between those sit smaller interfaces: connectors, cable assemblies and terminations that carry power out to moving machinery and bring sensor signals back. They rarely lead a reliability agenda, yet every sensor reading and drive command passes through them. They deserve structured attention.</p> 538<figure id="attachment_91080" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-91080" style="width: 1500px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11925-Figure-1-Port-electrical-environment-overview-1500.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-91080" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11925-Figure-1-Port-electrical-environment-overview-1500.jpg" alt="" width="1500" height="844" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11925-Figure-1-Port-electrical-environment-overview-1500.jpg 1500w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11925-Figure-1-Port-electrical-environment-overview-1500-300x169.jpg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11925-Figure-1-Port-electrical-environment-overview-1500-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11925-Figure-1-Port-electrical-environment-overview-1500-768x432.jpg 768w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11925-Figure-1-Port-electrical-environment-overview-1500-150x84.jpg 150w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11925-Figure-1-Port-electrical-environment-overview-1500-500x281.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100v
538w, 1500px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-91080" class="wp-caption-text"><span style="color: #003366;">Figure 1. A working container terminal concentrates every degradation mechanism in one place: salt-laden air, moisture cycling, mechanical vibration and continuously moving cable assemblies.  Click image to enlarge</span></figcaption></figure> 539<h2><span style="color: #333399;"><strong>Why Marine Environments Are Different</strong></span></h2> 540<p><span style="color: #333399;"><strong>Salt and corrosion</strong></span></p> 541<p>Marine air carries salt particles that settle on every exposed surface. Salt residue is hygroscopic: it pulls moisture from the air and holds it against metal as a thin electrolyte film. On connector shells, contact platings and terminations, that film supports leakage currents and galvanic corrosion. Contact surfaces degrade and resistance rises â heat under load in power circuits, noise on signal lines. Connections handle coastal service routinely when their corrosion resistance is specified and tested. ISO 9227 salt-spray exposure, typically 48 to 720 hours, and the cyclic severities of IEC 60068-2-52 are common screening methods; severity should match the actual service exposure.</p> 542<p><span style="color: #333399;"><strong>Moisture and temperature cycling</strong></span></p> 543<p>Daily temperature swings add a second mechanism. A housing that warms in the sun and cools at night breathes: as internal air cools it contracts and draws humid outside air through any imperfect seal. Repeated cycles accumulate moisture, and condensation ends up on internal surfaces inside equipment that is, by specification, sealed. Seal quality, housing material and pressure management in larger enclosures decide how much water reaches live parts.</p> 544<p><span style="color: #333399;"><strong>Mechanical stress</strong></span></p> 545<p>Port machinery also moves hard. Cranes slew, trolley and hoist under load; RTGs brake, steer and articulate; cables on reels and festoons flex for the life of the machine. Vibration and shock reach the contact interface. Fretting â micro-motion between mating surfaces â wears plating and builds oxide debris that pushes resistance upward. Locking mechanisms loosen and terminations fatigue. Cable routing and strain relief decide whether the cable or the contacts carry those loads.</p> 546<figure id="attachment_91079" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-91079" style="width: 1500px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11925-Figure-2-Salt-moisture-vibration-failure-mechanisms-1500.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-91079" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11925-Figure-2-Salt-moisture-vibration-failure-mechanisms-1500.jpg" alt="" width="1500" height="844" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11925-Figure-2-Salt-moisture-vibration-failure-mechanisms-1500.jpg 1500w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11925-Figure-2-Salt-moisture-vibration-failure-mechanisms-1500-300x169.jpg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11925-Figure-2-Salt-moisture-vibration-failure-mechanisms-1500-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11925-Figure-2-Salt-moisture-vibration-failure-mechanisms-1500-768x432.jpg 768w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11925-Figure-2-Salt-moisture-vibration-failure-mechanisms-1500-150x84.jpg 150w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11925-Figure-2-Salt-moisture-vibration-failure-mechanisms-1500-500x281.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-91079" class="wp-caption-text"><span style="color: #003366;">Figure 2. Three routes to rising contact resistance: salt corrosion at the contact interface (left), moisture drawn in by day/night breathing and condensing inside the housing (centre), and fretting wear from vibration-driven micro-motion (right).  Click image to enlarge</span></figcaption></figure> 547<h2><span style="color: #333399;"><strong>Where Connection Problems Appear</strong></span></h2> 548<p><span style="color: #333399;"><strong>Crane sensor systems</strong></span></p> 549<p>The most exposed crane interfaces are the moving ones. Cables feeding trolleys, spreaders and hoist machinery ride reels and festoons, and the connectors at each end see flexing plus structural vibration. The classic case is a spreader sensor producing intermittent signals after prolonged service, with no fault at the sensor itself. The trail often ends at the connection interface, degraded by years of cable movement and salt exposure. Diagnosis costs a shift.</p> 550<p><span style="color: #333399;"><strong>
550Reefer infrastructure</strong></span></p> 551<p>Reefer connections fail on cycle count. The plug travels with the container and is mated and unmated at every repositioning, outdoors, in all weather. Cycle life is a specification line worth reading: 500 mating cycles is a common rating for industrial circular connectors, with heavy-duty designs reaching 1,000 or more. Beyond rating, contact springs lose force and plating wears with use, so maintenance practice decides whether worn plugs are caught early or found at failure.</p> 552<p><span style="color: #333399;"><strong>Aboard ship</strong></span></p> 553<p>Engine-room vibration is continuous, humidity persistent and access limited. Interfaces fitted in awkward locations go unseen between surveys, so they need visible seating and sealing more than yard equipment does.</p> 554<h2><span style="color: #333399;"><strong>Designing for Long-Term Reliability</strong></span></h2> 555<p><span style="color: #333399;"><strong>Environmental matching</strong></span></p> 556<p>Start from the actual service environment: direct water exposure or splash, expected salt deposition, the full temperature range including solar heating of dark housings, and the terminal’s cleaning procedures. High-pressure washing near electrical equipment is its own design case.</p> 557<p><span style="color: #333399;"><strong>Mechanical protection</strong></span></p> 558<p>Route and support cable so that flexing occurs along its length and the support hardware carries the cable mass. Add strain relief matched to the cable, locking mechanisms that stay secure under vibration yet open with hand tools, and contact systems with adequate normal force. Mechanical loads belong in the cable.</p> 559<p><span style="color: #333399;"><strong>Maintenance practice</strong></span></p> 560<p>Fold connector checks into the monthly electrical inspection on crane equipment: confirm the locking ring travels fully, look for a gap at the mating face, and check for backed-off cord grips and green or white creep at the contact mouth. On reefer plugs, a half-seated connection shows up as a visible gap between plug face and receptacle flange, a collar short of full rotation, or heat discoloration on the high-current pins. Quarterly, measure contact resistance on critical interfaces with a four-wire milliohm meter against the commissioning record. Many healthy power interfaces read in the low single-digit milliohms; signal contacts run higher, so the trend matters more than any absolute figure. A reading that has doubled warrants investigation; under load it shows up as a hot spot in an infrared scan.</p> 561<h2><span style="color: #333399;"><strong>Reliability Is More Than an IP Rating</strong></span></h2> 562<p>Ingress protection ratings answer one question under one test. Per IEC 60529, the first digit covers solids, the second water, each under defined conditions. IP67 is dust-tight with protection against temporary immersion. IP68 covers continuous immersion under conditions specified by the manufacturer and agreed for the application. IP69K â more precisely IP6K9K under ISO 20653, which carries forward the DIN 40050-9 wash-down test â addresses water jets at about 80 °C and 80 to 100 bar. That rating verifies spray resistance alone.</p> 563<p>Corrosion resistance, vibration endurance, chemical exposure, UV aging and cumulative mating lie outside the test. Two products with the same rating can age very differently on a crane. Treat the rating as one input to the specification.</p> 564<h2><span style="color: #333399;">Conclusion</span></h2> 565<p>Automation raises the stakes. Remote and automated cranes carry more sensors per machine, and an automated system cannot feel a connection working loose; it reports the symptom as a fault. The response is procedural. Put connection interfaces on the reliability schedule with defined inspection intervals, record commissioning contact-resistance values as a trend baseline, and specify mating-cycle life, salt-mist performance and vibration endurance against the actual duty. Documented connection systems reduce unexplained intermittent faults.</p> 566<p><span style="color: #333399;"><strong>About the author</strong></span></p> 567<p>Dennis Chiang is Founder and Technical Engineer at Teyconn, a manufacturer of industrial
567circular connectors and cable assemblies for automation, machinery and harsh industrial environments. <a href="https://teyconn.com/">https://teyconn.com/</a></p> 568<p><span style="color: #993300;">Added 30 September 2026</span></p> 569<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #3366ff;"> â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 570<p>News continues below</p> 571<div id="11928"></div> 572<p><span style="color: #000080;"><span style="font-size: xx-large;"><b>UK MAIB report on the foundering of the St Helena-registered Argos Georgia</b></span></span></p> 573<figure id="attachment_91067" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-91067" style="width: 1022px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Screenshot-2026-09-29-at-12-09-19-MAIBInvReport-19_2026-Argos-Georgia-Very-Serious-Marine-Casualty-2026-19-Arg-1022.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-91067" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Screenshot-2026-09-29-at-12-09-19-MAIBInvReport-19_2026-Argos-Georgia-Very-Serious-Marine-Casualty-2026-19-Arg-1022.jpg" alt="" width="1022" height="751" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Screenshot-2026-09-29-at-12-09-19-MAIBInvReport-19_2026-Argos-Georgia-Very-Serious-Marine-Casualty-2026-19-Arg-1022.jpg 1022w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Screenshot-2026-09-29-at-12-09-19-MAIBInvReport-19_2026-Argos-Georgia-Very-Serious-Marine-Casualty-2026-19-Arg-1022-300x220.jpg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Screenshot-2026-09-29-at-12-09-19-MAIBInvReport-19_2026-Argos-Georgia-Very-Serious-Marine-Casualty-2026-19-Arg-1022-768x564.jpg 768w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Screenshot-2026-09-29-at-12-09-19-MAIBInvReport-19_2026-Argos-Georgia-Very-Serious-Marine-Casualty-2026-19-Arg-1022-150x110.jpg 150w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Screenshot-2026-09-29-at-12-09-19-MAIBInvReport-19_2026-Argos-Georgia-Very-Serious-Marine-Casualty-2026-19-Arg-1022-500x367.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1022px) 100vw, 1022px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-91067" class="wp-caption-text"><span style="font-size: xx-small; color: #003366;"> Pictures: UK Ministry of Defence Crown Copyright 2024 ©.  Click image to enlarge</span></figcaption></figure> 574<p>Edited by <span style="color: #ff0000;"><strong>Paul Ridgway</strong></span><br /> 575<strong><span style="color: #ff0000;"><em>Africa</em></span> Ports & Ships</strong><br /> 576London</p> 577<p>Foundering of a fishing vessel approximately 190 nautical miles east of<br /> 578Port Stanley, Falkland Islands, with the loss of 13 lives. Text based on material kindly provided by UK MAIB</p> 579<p>On 25 September the UK Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) published its accident investigation report into the foundering of the St Helena- registered fishing vessel Argos Georgia on 22 July 2024, resulting in the loss of 13 lives.</p> 580<p>At about 19:00 on 22 July 2024, the St Helena-registered longline fishing vessel ARGOS GEORGIA Georgia capsized and sank while on passage from Port Stanley, Falkland Islands, to fishing grounds near South Georgia. Of the 27 people onboard, 13 perished and 14 were recovered.</p> 581<h2><span style="color: #000080;"><strong>Uncontrolled ingress of water</strong></span></h2> 582<p>At about 13:00, while approximately 190 nautical miles east of Port Stanley, Argos Georgia had experienced an uncontrolled ingress of water through the line hauling hatch. Water progressively flooded into the line hauler room then through the vessel via weathertight doors that had been left open, and the vessel took on a starboard list.</p> 583<p>A crew member raised the alarm via a colleague on a fishing vessel operating in the same region. This alarm was relayed to the authorities in the Falkland Islands and a rescue operation was initiated. As the list of the vessel steadily increased, the crew mustered and donned their immersion suits.</p> 584<figure id="attachment_91069" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-91069" style="width: 1082px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/ARGOS-GEORGIA-pic-2-MOD-1082.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-91069" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/ARGOS-GEORGIA-pic-2-MOD-1082.jpg" alt="" width="1082" height="692" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/ARGOS-GEORGIA-pic-2-MOD-1082.jpg 1082w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/ARGOS-GEORGIA-pic-2-MOD-1082-300x192.jpg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/ARGOS-GEORGIA-pic-2-MOD-1082-1024x655.jpg 1024w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/ARGOS-GEORGIA-pic-2-MOD-1082-768x491.jpg 768w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/ARGOS-GEORGIA-pic-2-MOD-1082-150x96.jpg 150w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/ARGOS-GEORGIA-pic-2-MOD-1082-500x320.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1082px) 100vw, 1082px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-91069" class="wp-caption-text"><span style="font-size: xx-small; color: #003366;"> Pictures: UK Ministry of Defence Crown Copyright 2024 ©.  Click image to enlarge</span></figcaption></figure> 585<h2><span style="color: #000080;"><strong>Liferaft damage</strong></span></h2> 586<p>At about 15:51, Argos Georgia lost propulsion and the vessel drifted in the heavy seas. By about 16:00, with the list further increasing, the crew started abandoning ship into two liferafts. One of the liferafts became damaged during the abandonment.</p> 587<p>Argos Georgia foundered at about 19:00. By about 11:30 on 23 July 2024, two of the responding vessels had recovered 14 survivors and nine deceased crew members. Four crew members remain missing, presumed dead.</p> 588<h2><span style="color: #000080;"><strong>Line hauling hatch problem</strong></span></h2> 589<p>The investigation found that the previously closed line hauling hatch opened uncommanded and unexpectedly at the time of the accident. The hatchâs manual securing bolts had likely not been applied before proceeding to sea.</p> 590<p>The crew were unable to close the hatch once it had opened, probably due to a failure of the hatchâs operating mechanism. A hinged weathertight door leading from the line hauling compartment was open and hooked back. Sliding electro-hydraulic weathertight doors could not be closed, probably because of deluged control system short-circuits.</p> 591<p>Floodwater prevented crew accessing the manual emergency control. The nine deceased crew all wore immersion suits. Eight of the deceased were found face down in the water and had drowned.</p> 592<h2><span style="color: #000080;">Shell door securing arrangements recommended to be enhanced</span></h2> 593<p>
593The UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency has been recommended to enhance requirements for shell door securing arrangements in the relevant fishing vessel code.</p> 594<p>Recommendations have been made to the vesselâs management company, Argos Froyanes Limited, to implement a safety management system for its fleet.</p> 595<h2><span style="color: #000080;"><strong>FI SAR comms recommended to be enhanced</strong></span></h2> 596<p>A recommendation has also been made to the Falkland Islands Government, Directorate of Emergency Services and Islands Security to enhance its search and rescue communications capability.</p> 597<p>Chief Inspector of Marine Accidents, Rob Loder, said: “This was a tragic accident resulting in the loss of thirteen lives. Fishing in the remotest and most hostile parts of our oceans requires strict adherence to the maintenance of a vesselâs watertight integrity. Should a problem arise a quick, clear and efficient emergency plan should be executed. Training and safety drills provide the best chance of survival in such extreme circumstances.”</p> 598<h2><span style="color: #000080;"><strong>The report</strong></span></h2> 599<p>The MAIB report, available via this link <a href="<a href=" media=""><b>here</b></a>, contains details of what happened, subsequent actions taken and recommendations made.</p> 600<p>This investigation was carried out by the UK MAIB on behalf of the St Helena Government in accordance with the Category 2 Red Ensign Group Memorandum of Understanding.</p> 601<p>An MAIB safety flyer is made available using the link <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/are-your-vessel-operations-approved-and-practised/safety-flyer-to-the-fishing-industry-argos-georgia"><b>here</b></a>.</p> 602<p><span style="color: #993300;">Added 30 September 2026</span></p> 603<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #3366ff;"> â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 604<p>News continues below</p> 605<div id="11919"></div> 606<p><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: xx-large;"><b>South Africa faces another fuel-price shock as Middle East crisis keeps oil above $100</b></span></span></p> 607<figure id="attachment_91033" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-91033" style="width: 1500px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/NCC-REEM-KEITH-BETTS-IMG_3397-1500.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-91033" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/NCC-REEM-KEITH-BETTS-IMG_3397-1500.jpg" alt="" width="1500" height="1000" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/NCC-REEM-KEITH-BETTS-IMG_3397-1500.jpg 1500w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/NCC-REEM-KEITH-BETTS-IMG_3397-1500-300x200.jpg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/NCC-REEM-KEITH-BETTS-IMG_3397-1500-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/NCC-REEM-KEITH-BETTS-IMG_3397-1500-768x512.jpg 768w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/NCC-REEM-KEITH-BETTS-IMG_3397-1500-420x280.jpg 420w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/NCC-REEM-KEITH-BETTS-IMG_3397-1500-150x100.jpg 150w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/NCC-REEM-KEITH-BETTS-IMG_3397-1500-500x333.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-91033" class="wp-caption-text"><span style="font-size: xx-small; color: #003366;"> The products tanker NCC REEM (IMO 9459034) which sails under the Saudi Arabian flag, arrives in the port of Durban in this 2025 photograph, helping to keep South Africa supplied with fuel products. This picture is by Keith Betts   Click image to enlarge</span></figcaption></figure> 608<p><span style="color: #003366;"><strong><span style="color: #ff0000;"><em>Africa</em></span> Ports & Ships</strong></span></p> 609<p><strong><span style="color: #333333;">South African motorists are facing the prospect of another sharp fuel-price increase next week, with the latest Central Energy Fund figures pointing towards an increase of around R3 a litre for petrol if current international oil and refined-product prices persist through the end of September.</span></strong></p> 610<p>The final adjustment will only be announced by the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources ahead of the 7 October implementation date, and the size of the increase can still change during the final days of the pricing period.</p> 611<p>But the direction is becoming increasingly clear.</p> 612<p>The latest CEF data shows an under-recovery of R3.12/litre for Petrol 95 and R2.93/litre for Petrol 93. Diesel is also facing substantial increases, with under-recoveries ranging from about R2.73 to R3.13/litre.</p> 613<p>If those figures were carried through directly into the October price structure, petrol prices would approach or potentially exceed R30/litre, depending on grade, location and any changes to other components of the price calculation.</p> 614<p>That would represent another record level for South African motorists.</p> 615<p>The figures should nevertheless be treated as indicators rather than a prediction of the final pump price. The CEF calculates the daily over- or under-recovery based on movements in international petroleum prices and the rand/dollar exchange rate, while the final regulated price also incorporates domestic elements and any adjustments to the slate levy.</p> 616<h2><span style="color: #333333;"><strong>Middle East remains at the centre</strong></span></h2> 617<p>Behind the latest deterioration is the continuing disruption in the Middle East and its effect on international oil and petroleum-product markets.</p> 618<p>Brent crude has spent much of September above US$100 a barrel, after renewed conflict involving the United States and Iran raised concerns about supplies from the Gulf and the security of the major maritime routes through which those supplies move.</p> 619<p>The Strait of Hormuz is particularly important. Before the present conflict, roughly one-fifth of global oil supply moved through the waterway. Disruption to shipping through the Strait has therefore created a substantial risk premium in international oil markets.</p> 620<p>Reuters reported last week that increased Saudi crude flows and renewed ship movements through Hormuz had helped bring some relief to prices, but the underlying supply risk remained.</p> 621<p>The situation is further complicated by the wider disruption to shipping in the Middle East, including the Red Sea, where attacks and security risks have already caused many vessels to avoid the normal Suez route and sail around the Cape of Good Hope.</p> 622<p>That has direct implications for petroleum markets.</p> 623<h2><span style="color: #333333;"><strong>It is not only the price of crude</strong></span></h2> 624<p>South Africa’s fuel-pricing system does not simply take the international price of crude oil and convert it into a rand-per-litre pump price.</p> 625<p>The country’s Basic Fuel Price (BFP) is based on import-parity principles and reflects international refined-product prices, shipping-related import costs and the rand/US dollar exchange rate.</p> 626<p>Petrol pricing uses reference markets in the Mediterranean and Singapore, while diesel and illuminating paraffin use Mediterranean and Arabian Gulf reference markets.</p> 627<p>This means that disruption to petroleum-product supply chains can affect South African fuel prices even when movements in the underlying crude price appear relatively modest.</p> 628<p>Shipping costs are particularly relevant in the current environment.</p> 629<p>South Africa imports both crude oil and finished petroleum products at internationally determined prices, and the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources explicitly identifies importation costs, including shipping, as part of the international factors influencing local fuel prices.</p> 630<p>That provides an important link between the geopolitical crisis and the price eventually paid at a South African filling station.</p> 631<h2><span style="color: #333333;"><strong>The rand has provided only limited protection</strong></span></h2> 632<p>The exchange rate is the other major variable.</p> 633<p>A stronger rand can offset some of the impact of higher dollar-denominated oil prices, while a
633weaker rand amplifies it.</p> 634<p>During the earlier September pricing period, the rand provided some relief against the increase in international petroleum prices. But more recent movements have reduced that benefit, leaving the CEF’s fuel-price recoveries increasingly exposed.</p> 635<p>The result is that both sides of the calculation are currently working against South African fuel consumers: international energy prices are high while the currency is providing less protection than it had earlier in the month.</p> 636<h2><span style="color: #333333;"><strong>A difficult month for transport</strong></span></h2> 637<p>The implications extend well beyond private motorists.</p> 638<p>Diesel is particularly important to South Africa’s freight and logistics economy, powering much of the country’s road-freight fleet as well as agricultural, mining, construction and other heavy-duty operations.</p> 639<p>The September adjustment had already increased petrol prices by R1.34/litre and diesel by approximately R2.94âR3.15/litre, according to the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources.</p> 640<p>A further increase of around R3/litre would therefore come on top of a substantial increase already absorbed by the transport sector.</p> 641<p>For road freight operators, the effect is not confined to the fuel bill. Higher diesel costs feed into transport rates and ultimately into the cost of moving manufactured goods, agricultural products, imports and exports.</p> 642<p>There is also a wider inflationary consequence.</p> 643<p>The South African Reserve Bank has already identified the energy shock arising from the Middle East conflict as a significant source of inflationary pressure. On 23 September the Bank raised its policy rate by 25 basis points to 7.25%, while warning that the global energy shock was affecting the South African economy.</p> 644<h2><span style="color: #333333;"><strong>Waiting for 7 October</strong></span></h2> 645<p>The final outcome will depend on what happens to crude and refined-product prices, the rand and the other components of the fuel-price calculation during the remaining days of the month.</p> 646<p>A further easing of the Middle East situation could bring international oil prices down and reduce the final increase. Conversely, renewed disruption to Gulf production or shipping could push the under-recovery higher before the calculation period closes.</p> 647<p>For now, therefore, R3/litre should be regarded as an indication of the current under-recovery rather than a confirmed October increase.</p> 648<p>What is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore, however, is the extent to which an international maritime and geopolitical crisis is working its way through the global energy supply chain and ultimately into the cost of transport in South Africa.</p> 649<p>For a country already trying to reduce the cost of logistics, another major diesel increase would come at an especially difficult time.</p> 650<p>The final numbers will be announced next week. But the international factors behind them â oil, shipping, Hormuz, the Red Sea and the rand â are already in place.</p> 651<p><span style="color: #993300;">Added 29 September 2026</span></p> 652<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #3366ff;"> â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 653<p>News continues below</p> 654<div id="11923"></div> 655<p><span style="color: #003300;"><span style="font-size: xx-large;"><b>Nigeria expands port renewal programme beyond Lagos</b></span></span></p> 656<figure id="attachment_91028" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-91028" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Onne-Multipurpose-Terminal-Picture-ICTSI-700.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-91028" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Onne-Multipurpose-Terminal-Picture-ICTSI-700.jpg" alt="" width="700" height="400" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Onne-Multipurpose-Terminal-Picture-ICTSI-700.jpg 700w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Onne-Multipurpose-Terminal-Picture-ICTSI-700-300x171.jpg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Onne-Multipurpose-Terminal-Picture-ICTSI-700-150x86.jpg 150w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Onne-Multipurpose-Terminal-Picture-ICTSI-700-500x286.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 700px) 100v
656w, 700px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-91028" class="wp-caption-text"><span style="font-size: xx-small; color: #003366;">Onne Multipurpose Terminal, Nigeria.  Picture: ICTSI </span></figcaption></figure> 657<p><strong><span style="color: #003366;"><span style="color: #ff0000;"><em>Africa</em></span> Ports & Ships</span></strong></p> 658<p><strong><span style="color: #003300;">Nigeriaâs Federal Government has approved the comprehensive modernisation and upgrading of four major ports outside Lagos, in a move aimed at reducing the countryâs heavy dependence on the Lagos port complex and creating a more balanced national maritime network.</span></strong></p> 659<p>The latest approvals cover Onne and Rivers ports in Rivers State, Delta Port in Delta State and Calabar Port in Cross River State.</p> 660<p>They follow the earlier approval for the modernisation and upgrading of Apapa and Tin Can Island ports in Lagos, bringing six of Nigeriaâs major existing ports into the Federal Governmentâs current port-renewal programme.</p> 661<p>Announcing the latest decision, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola said extending the modernisation programme beyond Lagos would provide additional efficient gateways for international trade while helping to reduce the concentration of cargo traffic around the country’s commercial centre.</p> 662<p>The government says improved infrastructure and operational efficiency at the four ports will increase cargo-handling capability, reduce vessel turnaround times, strengthen regional connectivity and make the movement of goods more predictable and cost-effective.</p> 663<p>Oyetola said the four ports have important roles to play in Nigeriaâs trade, industrial and regional development and that the objective was to equip them to handle the demands of a growing economy.</p> 664<p>The move is significant because Nigeria’s maritime trade has historically been heavily concentrated around Lagos, where Apapa and Tin Can Island handle the bulk of the country’s containerised international trade.</p> 665<p>Developing alternative gateways could allow cargo destined for Nigeria’s eastern, south-eastern and south-southern regions to be handled closer to its final markets rather than first moving through Lagos and then travelling considerable distances by road.</p> 666<figure id="attachment_91030" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-91030" style="width: 200px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/imagesNZCC5GVB.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-91030" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/imagesNZCC5GVB.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="177" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/imagesNZCC5GVB.jpg 200w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/imagesNZCC5GVB-150x133.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-91030" class="wp-caption-text"><span style="font-size: xx-small; color: #003366;"> Map showing Nigerian ports </span></figcaption></figure> 667<h2><span style="color: #003300;"><strong>Eastern and southern gateways</strong></span></h2> 668<p>The four ports occupy strategically different positions within Nigeria’s coastal economy.</p> 669<p>Onne and Rivers ports, both in Rivers State, serve the major industrial and energy-producing region around Port Harcourt and the Niger Delta. Onne in particular has developed a significant role in offshore oil and gas logistics and industrial activity.</p> 670<p>Delta Port, serving the Warri area, provides a maritime gateway into another important industrial and energy-producing region, while Calabar Port, in the far south-east of Nigeria, has the potential to serve Cross River State and neighbouring areas as well as cross-border trade towards Cameroon.</p> 671<p>The governmentâs stated objective is therefore not simply to increase the amount of cargo that Nigeria can handle, but to create a network in which cargo can be routed through gateways closer to its origins and destinations.</p> 672<p>Oyetola said the port programme forms part of a wider vision for an integrated maritime and logistics system, in which ports are connected effectively to roads, railways, inland waterways and other transport infrastru
672cture.</p> 673<p>The government has not yet announced the capital value, financing arrangements, detailed scope of works or implementation timetable for the four newly approved modernisation programmes. The latest announcement therefore represents a government approval to proceed rather than evidence that the full investment has already been financed or that construction is under way.</p> 674<figure id="attachment_91029" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-91029" style="width: 1062px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Calabar-Port.jpeg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-91029" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Calabar-Port.jpeg" alt="" width="1062" height="598" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Calabar-Port.jpeg 1062w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Calabar-Port-300x169.jpeg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Calabar-Port-1024x577.jpeg 1024w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Calabar-Port-768x432.jpeg 768w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Calabar-Port-150x84.jpeg 150w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Calabar-Port-500x282.jpeg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1062px) 100vw, 1062px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-91029" class="wp-caption-text"><span style="font-size: xx-small; color: #003366;">Calabar Port, South-East of Nigeria. Picture: supplied</span></figcaption></figure> 675<h2><span style="color: #003300;"><strong>Existing ports and new deep-sea gateways</strong></span></h2> 676<p>The programme is being pursued alongside an even more ambitious plan to expand Nigeria’s port network through the development of new deep-sea ports.</p> 677<p>The Federal Government has identified projects including the Ibom Deep Seaport in Akwa Ibom State, Bakassi in Cross River State, Agge in Bayelsa State, Gateway in Ogun State, Ondo in Ondo State and Bonny in Rivers State.</p> 678<p>The Gateway project provides a particularly interesting example of the government’s strategy. As reported separately, Ogun State has signed agreements with DP World covering the proposed Gateway Deep Sea Port and a 10,000-hectare Blue Marine Special Economic Zone, with envisaged initial investment of more than US$7 billion.</p> 679<p>Taken together, the projects point towards a substantial reshaping of Nigeria’
679s maritime infrastructure: modernising existing ports while simultaneously developing new deep-water gateways and the road, rail and industrial infrastructure needed to support them.</p> 680<p>For Nigeria, the underlying objective is to move away from a port system in which Lagos carries a disproportionate share of international cargo and towards a network of specialised and geographically distributed gateways.</p> 681<p>Whether that ambition is realised will depend not only on the physical upgrading of the ports, but also on the availability of reliable road and rail connections, efficient terminal operations, competitive port charges and the development of cargo-generating industries around the alternative gateways.</p> 682<p>For now, however, the approval of the four upgrades marks a significant extension of Nigeria’s port-renewal programme from Lagos into the country’s eastern and southern maritime corridors.</p> 683<p><span style="color: #993300;">Added 29 September 2026</span></p> 684<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #3366ff;"> â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 685<p>News continues below</p> 686<div id="11903"></div> 687<p><span style="color: #333399;"><span style="font-size: xx-large;"><b>DP World and Ogun sign agreements for $7bn deep-sea port and logistics zone</b></span></span></p> 688<figure id="attachment_91025" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-91025" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/ogun-state-Nigeria-source-unocha.org-ID.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-91025" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/ogun-state-Nigeria-source-unocha.org-ID.jpg" alt="" width="700" height="496" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/ogun-state-Nigeria-source-unocha.org-ID.jpg 700w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/ogun-state-Nigeria-source-unocha.org-ID-300x213.jpg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/ogun-state-Nigeria-source-unocha.org-ID-150x106.jpg 150w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/ogun-state-Nigeria-source-unocha.org-ID-500x354.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 700px) 100v
688w, 700px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-91025" class="wp-caption-text"><span style="font-size: xx-small; color: #003366;"> Map of Ogun State, Nigeria. Map: UN Ocha </span></figcaption></figure> 689<p><strong><span style="color: #003366;"><em><span style="color: #ff0000;">Africa</span></em> Ports & Ships</span></strong></p> 690<p><span style="color: #000080;"><strong>DP World and Nigeriaâs Ogun State have signed agreements covering the development of a new deep-sea port and a major special economic zone, in a proposed investment programme valued at more than US$7 billion.</strong></span></p> 691<p>The memoranda of understanding, signed in Paris on 24 September, cover the proposed Gateway Deep Sea Port at Ogun Waterside and a 10,000-hectare Blue Marine Special Economic Zone.</p> 692<p>The agreements were signed in the presence of Nigerian President Bola Tinubu and Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun.</p> 693<h2><span style="color: #333399;"><strong>South-East of Lagos</strong></span></h2> 694<p>Ogun State lies immediately north of Lagos State in south-western Nigeria, but its short Atlantic coastline is at the state’s extreme south-east, in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area. The proposed port is planned in the Olokola/Ogun Waterside coastal area, close to the boundary with neighbouring Ondo State and well to the east of the LagosâBenin border.</p> 695<p>Its location places the project outside the congested Lagos port complex while keeping it within the wider economic hinterland of Lagos and south-western Nigeria.</p> 696<p>The proposed port is planned with a 4,000-metre quay and an 18-metre draught, providing Nigeria with an additional deep-water maritime gateway outside the existing Lagos port complex.</p> 697<p>The development is intended to handle cargo currently moving through the ports of Apapa and Tin Can Island and to provide additional capacity as Nigeria’s international trade continues to grow.</p> 698<p>The port will form part of a much larger integrated logistics and industrial development. The proposed Blue Marine Special Economic Zone is intended to accommodate manufacturing, processing, logistics and export-oriented industries, with the port providing the maritime connection for both imported inputs and exported products.</p> 699<p>The Ogun State Government says the combined development could create more than 50,000 direct jobs when fully developed.</p> 700<h2><span style="color: #333399;"><strong>Federal Government support</strong></span></h2> 701<p>President Tinubu said the federal government would support the project through the provision and facilitation of road, rail and power infrastructure, together with maritime security and regulatory support.</p> 702<p>A key element will be connectivity with the wider Nigerian transport network. The project is expected to benefit from the proposed Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, while links are also planned to the Gateway International Airport and dry-port facilities.</p> 703<p>The location also places the development close to other major projects, including the proposed Nigerian Navy Operating Base and Dockyard and the OK LNG project.</p> 704<p>Ogun State has described the concept as more than a port development, with the objective being to create an integrated maritime, industrial and logistics corridor.</p> 705<p>Governor Abiodun has compared the proposed development with the model used by DP World at Jebel Ali in Dubai, where a major container port operates alongside an extensive free-zone and industrial
705complex.</p> 706<p>For DP World, the Ogun project would extend its strategy of combining ports with logistics, industrial and special economic zone development.</p> 707<p>The company already has a growing presence in Africa, including major port and logistics operations in Egypt, Senegal,Tanzania, Mozambique and elsewhere on the continent.</p> 708<h2><span style="color: #333399;"><strong>African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)</strong></span></h2> 709<p>The proposed Ogun development is also being positioned as infrastructure supporting Nigeria’s ambitions under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), particularly by providing facilities for manufacturing and the movement of non-oil exports into African markets.</p> 710<p>However, the US$7 billion figure represents the investment envisaged under the agreements and should not be interpreted as capital already committed or spent. The project will still have to move through the necessary development, financing, regulatory, environmental and infrastructure stages before construction and eventual operations.</p> 711<p>The proposed port nevertheless represents another significant development in Nigeria’s effort to expand its maritime gateway capacity beyond the heavily congested Lagos port system.</p> 712<p>It also reflects a growing trend across Africa towards developing ports as components of broader industrial and logistics corridors, rather than as standalone cargo-handling facilities.</p> 713<p><span style="color: #993300;">Added 29 September 2026</span></p> 714<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #3366ff;"> â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 715<p>News continues below</p> 716<div id="11918"></div> 717<p><span style="color: #0000ff;"><span style="font-size: xx-large;"><b>India’s Texmaco secures $135 million locomotive order for South Africa</b></span></span></p> 718<figure id="attachment_91015" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-91015" style="width: 1500px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Texmaco-Wabtac-loco-possible-designed-for-APS-by-AI-1500.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-91015" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Texmaco-Wabtac-loco-possible-designed-for-APS-by-AI-1500.jpg" alt="" width="1500" height="821" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Texmaco-Wabtac-loco-possible-designed-for-APS-by-AI-1500.jpg 1500w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Texmaco-Wabtac-loco-possible-designed-for-APS-by-AI-1500-300x164.jpg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Texmaco-Wabtac-loco-possible-designed-for-APS-by-AI-1500-1024x560.jpg 1024w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Texmaco-Wabtac-loco-possible-designed-for-APS-by-AI-1500-768x420.jpg 768w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Texmaco-Wabtac-loco-possible-designed-for-APS-by-AI-1500-150x82.jpg 150w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Texmaco-Wabtac-loco-possible-designed-for-APS-by-AI-1500-500x274.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-91015" class="wp-caption-text"><span style="font-size: xx-small; color: #003366;"> AI imagination of a Texmaco-designed Wabtec locomotive for South Africa.  Picture: AP&S  Click image to enlarge</span></figcaption></figure> 719<p><strong><span style="color: #003366;"><em><span style="color: #ff0000;">Africa</span> </em>Ports & Ships</span></strong></p> 720<p><strong>Indian rail engineering company Texmaco Rail & Engineering has secured a US$135 million order to supply diesel-electric locomotives to South Africa, adding further substance to the country’s opening of its freight rail network to private train operators.</strong></p> 721<p>The Letter of Award, issued by Tsiko Africa Logistics (Pty) Ltd together with Barberry Holdings (Pty) Ltd, covers the design, manufacture, supply and commissioning of Wabtec ES43ACi 4,500-hp diesel-electric locomotives.</p> 722<p>Texmaco says the order is to be executed within 20 to 24 months of the signing of the definitive agreement.</p> 723<p>The order is the latest development in a much larger rolling-stock programme involving the same South African partners.</p> 724<p>In May, Texmaco received a Letter of Award worth more than US$430 million from Tsiko Africa Logistics and Barberry Holdings for the supply of more than 2,235 freight wagons in several variants and 30 diesel locomotives, together with related components and a proposed 15-year maintenance partnership. Deliveries under that programme are scheduled for 2027-28.</p> 725<p>The September award is specifically for the Wabtec ES43ACi locomotives and should therefore be reported separately from the broader May rolling-stock award, although both arise from the same South African rail programme.</p> 726<h2><span style="color: #0000ff;"><strong>Private rail operators</strong></span></h2> 727<p>The South African connection is significant because Barberry is one of the 11 private Train Operating Companies (TOCs) selected by Transnet Rail Infrastru
727cture Manager (TRIM) to operate freight services on the national rail network.</p> 728<p>TRIM announced in May that the 11 operators had been allocated access to Transnet’s network, potentially adding an initial 24 million tonnes of freight capacity, with the possibility of scaling this to 52 million tonnes over five years. The operators are expected to bring additional capacity into commodities including coal, manganese, containers, fuel and general freight.</p> 729<p>Barberry has secured a particularly substantial allocation, with Business Day reporting that it obtained 21 of the 41 available rail slots. The company is targeting operations from September 2027 and has indicated plans to acquire about 60 locomotives and 2,500 wagons to meet customer demand.</p> 730<p>Tsiko Africa is the broader South African investment group behind the logistics operation. Its rail activities are being developed as part of an end-to-end logistics offering, with Barberry providing the rail-operating capability.</p> 731<h2><span style="color: #0000ff;"><strong>Energy logistics connection</strong></span></h2> 732<p>The Tsiko-Barberry rail operation also has a strong energy-logistics connection. The partnership was established to provide rail-freight capabilities for Tosaco Energy’s oil, gas and renewable-energy projects and customers, forming part of an end-to-e
732nd logistics offering.</p> 733<p>Tsiko’s energy business includes the supply of petroleum products, crude oil and bitumen, as well as LPG, LNG and emerging clean-energy products. The new locomotives could therefore support energy-product movements, including liquid fuels, although the Texmaco order has not been identified as a dedicated fuel-transport fleet.</p> 734<p>Barberry is headed by Anand Moodliar, who brings extensive railway experience to the new private-sector operation. Moodliar spent 12 years with Transnet Freight Rail and its predecessor Spoornet, rising to General Manager of the National Operating Centre before leaving the state-owned railway in 2005. He subsequently became Group Chief Executive of Barberry Holdings.</p> 735<h2><span style="color: #0000ff;"><strong>Local manufacturing</strong></span></h2> 736<p>The Texmaco programme is also expected to have a South African industrial component.</p> 737<p>Following the large May award, Texmaco announced plans to establish its first overseas manufacturing facility in South Africa, producing locomotives and wagons. The proposed investment was reported at about â¹200â300 crore, with the facility expected to begin operations in 2027 and with scope for expansion in later phases.</p> 738<p>The development is significant because it means the South African programme is not necessarily simply a matter of importing completed locomotives and wagons from India. Texmaco’s stated intention is to develop manufacturing capability in South Africa, although the precise proportion of the rolling stock that will be manufactured, assembled or supplied from South Africa has not yet been disclosed.</p> 739<p>This localisation could create opportunities for South African engineering companies and component suppliers, as well as for skills development and maintenance capability.</p> 740<p>The scale of the programme is consistent with the ambitions outlined by Barberry following its TRIM allocation. The company has said it intends to buy rather than simply lease much of the rolling stock it requires, while engaging both local and international manufacturers.</p> 741<h2><span style="color: #0000ff;"><strong>A new phase for South African freight rail</strong></span></h2> 742<p>The Texmaco orders consequently provide a tangible indication of the investment that is beginning to accompany South Africa’s open-access rail reforms.</p> 743<p>For decades, Transnet Freight Rail effectively combined the roles of infrastructure manager and dominant freight train operator. Under the new structure, TRIM manages access to the rail network while private TOCs acquire rolling stock and operate trains over it.</p> 744<p>The arrival of privately financed locomotives and wagons is therefore an important next step. Securing network access is one thing; putting sufficient locomotives, wagons, crews and supporting infrastructure into service is what will determine how much additional freight can actually be moved by rail.</p> 745<p>Texmaco’s South African programme â spanning thousands of wagons, dozens of locomotives, long-term maintenance and planned local manufacturing â suggests that the country’s rail reform is now moving into that capital-intensive phase.</p> 746<p><span style="color: #993300;">Added 28 September 2026</span></p> 747<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #3366ff;"> â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 748<p>News continues below</p> 749<div id="11924"></div> 750<p><span style="color: #0000ff;"><span style="font-size: xx-large;"><b>French Navy ship on patrol, visits Durban</b></span></span></p> 751<figure id="attachment_91011" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-91011" style="width: 1500px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/AUGUSTE-TECHER-RF-26-September-2026-1Trevor-Jones-1500.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-91011" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/AUGUSTE-TECHER-RF-26-September-2026-1Trevor-Jones-1500.jpg" alt="" width="1500" height="1012" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/AUGUSTE-TECHER-RF-26-September-2026-1Trevor-Jones-1500.jpg 1500w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/AUGUSTE-TECHER-RF-26-September-2026-1Trevor-Jones-1500-300x202.jpg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/AUGUSTE-TECHER-RF-26-September-2026-1Trevor-Jones-1500-1024x691.jpg 1024w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/AUGUSTE-TECHER-RF-26-September-2026-1Trevor-Jones-1500-768x518.jpg 768w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/AUGUSTE-TECHER-RF-26-September-2026-1Trevor-Jones-1500-150x101.jpg 150w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/AUGUSTE-TECHER-RF-26-September-2026-1Trevor-Jones-1500-500x337.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100v
751w, 1500px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-91011" class="wp-caption-text"><span style="font-size: xx-small; color: #003366;"> French Navy patrol ship Auguste Techer departing Durban 26 September 2026.  Picture by Trevor Jones.  Click image to enlarge</span></figcaption></figure> 752<p><strong><span style="color: #003366;"><em><span style="color: #ff0000;">Africa</span></em> Ports & Ships</span></strong></p> 753<p><strong><span style="color: #000080;">One of the French Navy’s newest overseas patrol vessels, the Auguste Techer (P781), made a call at Durban last week during her operations in the western Indian Ocean.</span></strong></p> 754<p><span style="color: #000080;">Based at Port des Galets on La Réunion, the 80-metre vessel is the third of six new Félix Ãboué-class Patrouilleurs Outre-Mer (POM) being introduced by the French Navy to strengthen its permanent presence in France’s overseas territories.</span></p> 755<p><span style="color: #000080;">The Auguste Techer was delivered to the French Navy at La Réunion in August 2025 and formally entered operational service two months later. She is one of a new generation of patrol vessels replacing the ageing P400-class ships that previously performed many of France’s overseas patrol duties.</span></p> 756<p><span style="color: #000080;">Displacing about 1,300 tonnes fully loaded, the Auguste Techer is 79.9 metres long and 11.8 metres wide. She can reach 24 knots and has a range of approximately 5,500 nautical miles at 12 knots, allowing her to remain at sea for extended periods. The vessel carries a crew of around 30 and can accommodate additional personnel.</span></p> 757<p><span style="color: #000080;">Her principal duties are not those of a conventional combat vessel but are centred on maritime surveillance and sovereignty missions. These include fisheries protection, combating illicit trafficking, search and rescue, humanitarian assistance and protection of French maritime interests.</span></p> 758<p><span style="color: #000080;">The ship is equipped with a remotely operated 20 mm Narwhal cannon, machine guns, two fast boats and an embarked surveillance drone, giving the relatively small vessel a substantial ability to monitor large areas of ocean.</span></p> 759<p><span style="color: #000080;">The Auguste Techer is also notable for her modern propulsion system. The POM design uses hybrid diesel-electric propulsion, allowing patrol operations at lower speeds to be conducted using electric power while retaining the ability to make high-speed transits when required.</span></p> 760<figure id="attachment_91013" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-91013" style="width: 1500px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/AUGUSTE-TECHER-RF-26-September-2026-2-Trevor-Jones-1500.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-91013" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/AUGUSTE-TECHER-RF-26-September-2026-2-Trevor-Jones-1500.jpg" alt="" width="1500" height="1002" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/AUGUSTE-TECHER-RF-26-September-2026-2-Trevor-Jones-1500.jpg 1500w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/AUGUSTE-TECHER-RF-26-September-2026-2-Trevor-Jones-1500-300x200.jpg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/AUGUSTE-TECHER-RF-26-September-2026-2-Trevor-Jones-1500-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/AUGUSTE-TECHER-RF-26-September-2026-2-Trevor-Jones-1500-768x513.jpg 768w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/AUGUSTE-TECHER-RF-26-September-2026-2-Trevor-Jones-1500-420x280.jpg 420w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/AUGUSTE-TECHER-RF-26-September-2026-2-Trevor-Jones-1500-150x100.jpg 150w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/AUGUSTE-TECHER-RF-26-September-2026-2-Trevor-Jones-1500-500x334.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-91013" class="wp-caption-text"><span style="font-size: xx-small; color: #003366;"> French Navy patrol ship Auguste Techer departing Durban 26 September 2026. Picture by Trevor Jones.  Click image to enlarge</span></figcaption></figure> 761<p><span style="color: #000080;">Her deployment from La Réunion forms part of France’
761s continuing maritime presence in the south-western Indian Ocean, an area in which France maintains extensive maritime responsibilities through its overseas territories and exclusive economic zones.</span></p> 762<p><span style="color: #000080;">The Durban visit comes after the vessel’s recent regional deployment, which included a call at Maputo from 13 to 17 September, where the French Navy used the visit to strengthen maritime-security cooperation with Mozambique, particularly concerning trafficking, illegal fishing and security in the Mozambique Channel.</span></p> 763<p><span style="color: #000080;">For Durban, the visit provided an opportunity to see one of the newest additions to the French overseas fleet at close quarters â a compact but highly capable patrol vessel designed specifically for the long-distance surveillance and protection of France’s extensive maritime interests in the Indo-Pacific.</span></p> 764<p><span style="color: #000080;">Interestingly, this was not her first viit at a South African port. Auguste Techer also visited Cape Town during her delivery voyage to the Indian Ocean, arriving on 11 August 2025 after which she participated briefly with the South African Navy during Exercise Red Lion. The patrol vessel subsquently arrived at Port des Galets on 25 August 2025.</span></p> 765<p><span style="color: #993300;">Added 28 September 2026</span></p> 766<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #3366ff;"> â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 767<p>News continues below</p> 768<div id="11916"></div> 769<p><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: xx-large;"><b>Heavy machinery arrives at Lamu for $17bn Dangote refinery</b></span></span></p> 770<figure id="attachment_91000" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-91000" style="width: 1536px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11544-DANGOTE-COMES-TO-LAMU-1dd903b2-e42d-4e66-a808-b1a57a6873ee.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-91000" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11544-DANGOTE-COMES-TO-LAMU-1dd903b2-e42d-4e66-a808-b1a57a6873ee.jpg" alt="" width="1536" height="1024" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11544-DANGOTE-COMES-TO-LAMU-1dd903b2-e42d-4e66-a808-b1a57a6873ee.jpg 1536w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11544-DANGOTE-COMES-TO-LAMU-1dd903b2-e42d-4e66-a808-b1a57a6873ee-300x200.jpg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11544-DANGOTE-COMES-TO-LAMU-1dd903b2-e42d-4e66-a808-b1a57a6873ee-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11544-DANGOTE-COMES-TO-LAMU-1dd903b2-e42d-4e66-a808-b1a57a6873ee-768x512.jpg 768w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11544-DANGOTE-COMES-TO-LAMU-1dd903b2-e42d-4e66-a808-b1a57a6873ee-420x280.jpg 420w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11544-DANGOTE-COMES-TO-LAMU-1dd903b2-e42d-4e66-a808-b1a57a6873ee-150x100.jpg 150w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11544-DANGOTE-COMES-TO-LAMU-1dd903b2-e42d-4e66-a808-b1a57a6873ee-500x333.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1536px) 100vw, 1536px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-91000" class="wp-caption-text"><span style="font-size: xx-small; color: #003366;"> First heavy machinery for new refinery at Lamu arrives. Picture AI for AP&S</span></figcaption></figure> 771<p><span style="color: #003366;"><strong><span style="color: #ff0000;"><em>Africa</em></span> Ports & Ships</strong></span></p> 772<p><strong>Construction of the long-planned US$17 billion Dangote East Africa Refinery has moved into its mobilisation phase, with the Port of Lamu receiving its first major shipment of project cargo ahead of the facility’s scheduled groundbreaking on 30 September.</strong></p> 773<p>The vessel MV Da Yang arrived at Lamu on Saturday carrying 2,930 tonnes of heavy construction machinery and equipment destined for the refinery project. The arrival represents one of the first tangible signs that construction of the massive industrial
773complex is moving from planning into execution.</p> 774<p>The refinery, backed by Nigeria’s Dangote Group, is planned for the Lamu Port-South Sudan-Ethiopia Transport (LAPSSET) Corridor and is designed to process up to 700,000 barrels of crude oil a day. It is expected to become the largest refinery in East Africa.</p> 775<p>Feedstock is planned to include crude from Kenya’s Lokichar fields in Turkana County, supplemented by crude from other East and Southern African sources. Refined petroleum products are intended for Kenya and wider regional markets.</p> 776<p>For the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA), the arrival is significant for another reason. KPA said the successful handling of the heavy and specialised cargo demonstrated Lamu Port’s readiness to support the refinery’s construction programme and, ultimately, the petroleum and industrial logistics expected to develop around it.</p> 777<p>The refinery is expected to form an important industrial anchor for Lamu and the wider LAPSSET corridor. Once operational, it would add substantial refining capacity to East Africa while creating demand for crude-oil imports, product distribution, storage, marine services and inland transport.</p> 778<p>The project has been under discussion for some time, but the arrival of construction machinery provides a significant change in status. Dangote has set 30 September for the formal groundbreaking, with Kenyan President William Ruto expected to lead the ceremony.</p> 779<p>For Lamu Port, the development could prove equally important. The port was conceived as the maritime gateway for the LAPSSET corridor, and the refinery would provide one of its largest potential industrial cargo and petroleum customers. The first project-cargo shipment therefore offers an early indication of the type of heavy and specialised traffic that Lamu was designed to accommodate.</p> 780<p><span style="color: #993300;">Added 28 September 2026</span></p> 781<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #3366ff;"> â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 782<p>News continues below</p> 783<div id="11921"></div> 784<p><span style="color: #003366;"><span style="font-size: xx-large;"><b>Douala adds 40,000 tonnes of grain storage capacity</b></span></span></p> 785<figure id="attachment_90989" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-90989" style="width: 1500px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/port-douala-1-1500.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-90989" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/port-douala-1-1500.jpg" alt="" width="1500" height="844" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/port-douala-1-1500.jpg 1500w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/port-douala-1-1500-300x169.jpg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/port-douala-1-1500-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/port-douala-1-1500-768x432.jpg 768w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/port-douala-1-1500-150x84.jpg 150w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/port-douala-1-1500-500x281.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-90989" class="wp-caption-text"><span style="font-size: xx-small; color: #003366;"> Cameroon’s Port of Douala. Picture PAD  Click image to enlarge</span></figcaption></figure> 786<p><span style="color: #003366;"><strong><span style="color: #ff0000;"><em>Africa</em></span> Ports & Ships</strong></span></p> 787<p><strong>The Port Authority of Douala (PAD) has completed a new grain-handling and storage complex at the Port of Douala-Bonabéri in Cameroon, adding 40,000 tonnes of cereal storage capacity to one of Central Africa’s principal maritime gateways.</strong></p> 788<p>The facility, developed in partnership with Afisa Food Industry SA, comprises eight silos, each with a capacity of 5,000 tonnes. Afisa, part of Sudan’s Elnefeidi Group, will operate the installation under a 20-year concession.</p> 789<p>The project does not represent Douala’s first grain-handling facility. The port already has a dedicated grain terminal at Berth 13, principally serving Grand Moulin Cameroun (GMC), while grain cargo can also be handled through the port’s multipurpose facilities.</p> 790<p>The significance of the new installation therefore lies in the additional capacity and, particularly, in its handling capability.</p> 791<p>The facility incorporates a Vigan pneumatic grain-unloading system capable of handling up to 600 tonnes an hour. PAD says this should allow grain vessels to be discharged in less than three days, improving vessel turnaround and releasing berth capacity for other traffic.</p> 792<p>
792The eight silos also provide an important buffer between ship discharge and the inland supply chain. Instead of grain having to move immediately from the port, imported cereals can be stored at the terminal before being distributed to processors and other users.</p> 793<p>That has implications beyond port efficiency. Cameroon is dependent on imported cereals to supplement domestic production, making reliable storage and handling capacity an important component of food security. Additional storage also provides greater flexibility in managing supply fluctuations and market conditions.</p> 794<p>For Douala, the project represents an example of how specialised cargo infrastructure can improve port performance without necessarily requiring a new berth. Faster ship discharge, additional storage and the ability to retain cargo within the port complex can all contribute to more efficient use of existing quay infrastructure.</p> 795<p>The new facility forms part of PAD’s broader modernisation programme for Douala-Bonabéri. The port authority has set an objective of increasing overall port handling capacity from around 13 million tonnes to 23 million tonnes by 2030 and ultimately to 45 million tonnes by 2050.</p> 796<p>The grain project consequently adds more than storage capacity: it strengthens Douala’s ability to handle an important bulk commodity while providing additional resilience in the cereal supply chain serving Cameroon and the wider Central African hinterland.</p> 797<p><span style="color: #003366;">Added 28 September 2026</span></p> 798<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #3366ff;"> â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 799<p>News continues below</p> 800<div id="11910"></div> 801<p><span style="color: #ff0000;"><span style="font-size: xx-large;"><b><span style="color: #800000;">Ngqura manganese corridor investment could reach R44bn</span></b></span></span></p> 802<figure id="attachment_90975" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-90975" style="width: 1259px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Hotazel-25-2-TFR-photo-of-manganese-train.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-90975" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Hotazel-25-2-TFR-photo-of-manganese-train.jpg" alt="" width="1259" height="809" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Hotazel-25-2-TFR-photo-of-manganese-train.jpg 1259w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Hotazel-25-2-TFR-photo-of-manganese-train-300x193.jpg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Hotazel-25-2-TFR-photo-of-manganese-train-1024x658.jpg 1024w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Hotazel-25-2-TFR-photo-of-manganese-train-768x493.jpg 768w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Hotazel-25-2-TFR-photo-of-manganese-train-150x96.jpg 150w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Hotazel-25-2-TFR-photo-of-manganese-train-500x321.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1259px) 100vw, 1259px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-90975" class="wp-caption-text"><span style="font-size: xx-small; color: #003366;"> Three Class 23E dual voltage locomotives operating out of Hotazel in the Northern Cape hauling a loaded manganese train. Picture: Transnet.  Click image to enlarge</span></figcaption></figure> 803<p><span style="color: #003366;">Terry Hutson</span><br /> 804<strong><span style="color: #003366;"><span style="color: #ff0000;"><em>Africa</em></span> Ports & Ships</span></strong></p> 805<p><strong><span style="color: #003366;">Transnet’s detailed RFQ (see article ‘<em>Transnet launches private-sector process for Ngqura manganese corridor</em>‘ also in this issue) reveals a proposed 1,100-km integrated rail and port operation, with private-sector partners expected to finance infrastructure rehabilitation, rail operations and a new manganese export terminal.</span></strong></p> 806<p><span style="color: #003366;">Transnet’s proposed Ngqura Manganese Export Corridor (NMEC) private-sector partnership could involve investment of between R30 billion and R44 billion, according to the detailed Request for Qualifications (RFQ) issued this week.</span></p> 807<p><span style="color: #003366;">The figure provides a clearer indication of the scale of the project than the initial announcement of the procurement, because the 86-page RFQ sets out an integrated programme covering not only the proposed manganese terminal at Ngqura, but also the railway linking the Northern Cape manganese fields with the Eastern Cape port.</sp
807an></p> 808<p><span style="color: #003366;">Importantly, the R30bnâR44bn figure is an indicative total investment envelope rather than a final project cost. Transnet says the transaction parameters and technical requirements remain subject to refinement during the procurement process and will ultimately be confirmed in the Request for Proposals (RFP) stage.</span></p> 809<p><span style="color: #003366;">The proposed project covers approximately 1,100 route kilometres of railway, running from the Northern Cape manganese basin through Hotazel, Kimberley and De Aar to the Port of Ngqura.</span></p> 810<p><span style="color: #003366;">The RFQ provides an unusually detailed description of the existing railway and makes clear why the project has evolved beyond the construction of a new export terminal.</span></p> 811<p><span style="color: #003366;">Transnet says the corridor’s current technical configuration and infrastructure condition constrain throughput, reliability and operational performance. Track, electrical and signalling infrastructure are particularly affected, while rail stress, turnout failures, cable theft and outdated train-authorisation systems are contributing to derailment risks, line closures and reduced capacity.</span></p> 812<p><span style="color: #003366;">These problems result in reduced slot capacity, increased transit times and lower reliability, according to the RFQ, which cites Transnet’s December 2024 Network Statement.</span></p> 813<h2><strong><span style="color: #003366;">The train-length problem is still there</span></strong></h2> 814<p><span style="color: #003366;">There is an important detail buried in the RFQ which puts the railway constraint into particularly sharp perspective.</span></p> 815<p><span style="color: #003366;">The document identifies the existing crossing loops on the corridor as accommodating trains limited to 106 rail wagons, approximately 1,150 metres in length.</span></p> 816<p><span style="color: #003366;">That is significant because the length of the crossing loops determines the length of trains that can operate efficiently on sections of a single-line railway where trains have to pass one another.</span></p> 817<p><span style="color: #003366;">It is also an issue that goes back to the early development of Ngqura.</span></p> 818<p><span style="color: #003366;">During the original planning of the manganese export relocation to Ngqura, the ability of the railway to accommodate longer heavy-haul trains was recognised as one of the essential infrastructure requirements. Earlier plans called for new crossing loops and the lengthening of existing loops to accommodate trains of up to 200 wagons.</span></p> 819<p><span style="color: #003366;">The current RFQ therefore provides an interesting measure of how much of that original rail-capacity challenge remains. While the new document does not prescribe a particular future train length, it identifies the existing infrastructure configuration as a constraint on throughput and specifically makes rail rehabilitation and optimisation part of the proposed private-sector transaction.</span></p> 820<p><span style="color: #003366;">In practical terms, this means that the proposed development of the new manganese terminal cannot be considered independently of the railway feeding it.</span></p> 821<p><span style="color: #003366;">The issue is particularly relevant to the proposed investment in infrastructure. If the successful consortium is to increase corridor throughput towards the RFQ’s proposed 12 Mtpa initially and potentially 16 Mtpa, the rehabilitation programme will have to address not only degraded infrastructure but also the physical and operational constraints affecting train capacity.</span></p> 822<h2><strong><span style="color: #003366;">The railway remains the critical issue</span></strong></h2> 823<p><span style="color: #003366;">This has been one of the recurring questions surrounding Ngqura since the port’s early development.</span></p> 824<p><span style="color: #003366;">The port itself was designed with substantial future growth potential, but increased bulk traffic has always depended on the railway being capable of delivering the required volumes.</span></p> 825<p><span style="color: #003366;">The RFQ now effectively acknowledges this by stating that a terminal investment alone would not unlock the corridor’
825s full export potential.</span></p> 826<p><span style="color: #003366;">Transnet says sustainable growth depends on the performance of the entire logistics chain, including rail infrastructure, rolling stock, corridor operations and terminal capacity. The project consequently evolved from a terminal development into the integrated NMEC programme.</span></p> 827<p><span style="color: #003366;">This is particularly relevant when considering the wider ambitions once associated with Ngqura. Earlier development plans envisaged the port as a major Eastern Cape bulk export facility, with proposals including increased manganese exports and, at various stages, the possibility of iron ore exports.</span></p> 828<p><span style="color: #003366;">Those ambitions brought the capacity of the railway into sharp focus. Earlier Ngqura manganese expansion plans envisaged new and lengthened crossing loops specifically to enable 200-wagon trains.</span></p> 829<p><span style="color: #003366;">The latest RFQ suggests that the railway constraint has not disappeared. Rather, it has now become an integral part of the proposed private-sector investment model.</span></p> 830<h2><strong><span style="color: #003366;">Three major investment components</span></strong></h2> 831<p><span style="color: #003366;">Transnet’s indicative investment envelope is divided into several components.</span></p> 832<p><span style="color: #003366;">The rail infrastructure investment is estimated at approximately R10bn to R20bn, excluding lifecycle investment. This covers rehabilitation, renewal and lifecycle maintenance of track, signalling, traction power and telecommunications infrastructure.</span></p> 833<p><span style="color: #003366;">A further R16bn is indicated for the Ngqura Manganese Export Terminal (NMET), while approximately R4bn is allocated as an indicative envelope for rail operations and rolling stock.</span></p> 834<p><span style="color: #003366;">The figures are planning estimates and should not be added together to produce a final project cost because Transnet presents the overall R30bnâR44bn envelope separately and says the various parameters remain subject to refinement during the procurement process.</span></p> 835<p><span style="color: #003366;">The terminal itself is planned initially for approximately 14.7 million tonnes a year, with provision for expansion to about 16 Mtpa, subject to demand.</span></p> 836<p><span style="color: #003366;">The wider corridor is expected initially to handle around 12 Mtpa, with potential growth to approximately 16 Mtpa.</span></p> 837<p><span style="color: #003366;">The significance of the railway investment becomes clearer when compared with the existing operation. The corridor currently uses approximately 64 Class 23E locomotives and 3,200 CR-class bulk wagons to move manganese between the Northern Cape and Ngqura.</span></p> 838<p><span style="color: #003366;">Transnet says improved infrastructure and operating efficiency should reduce train cycle times, improve fleet utilisation and optimise rolling-stock requirements.</span></p> 839<h2><strong><span style="color: #003366;">A different model for the corridor</span></strong></h2> 840<p><span style="color: #003366;">The proposed structure is also significant.</span></p> 841<p><span style="color: #003366;">A single private-sector consortium would establish a holding company and two separate special-purpose vehicles.</span></p> 842<p><span style="color: #003366;">SPV1, in which Transnet would retain a proposed 51% share and the private consortium 49%, would be responsible for the integrated commercial and operating side of the business. This includes the manganese terminal, rail haulage, rolling stock management, customer relationships and overall corridor performance.</span></p> 843<p><span style="color: #003366;">SPV2, wholly owned by the private consortium, would be responsible for financing, rehabilitating, renewing and maintaining the rail infrastructure under an availability-based agreement with the Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM).</span></p> 844<p><span style="color: #003366;">The arrangement means that the private partner’s responsibilities could extend from the physical rehabilitation of the railway through to the operation of trains and the handling and export of manganese at Ngqura.</span></p> 845<p><span style="color: #003366;">Transnet describes the approach as an integrated corridor solution intended to reduce the interface between rail infrastru
845cture, rail operations and terminal operations. The underlying strategic rail and port assets would remain in state ownership.</span></p> 846<h2><strong><span style="color: #003366;">From fragmented exports to an integrated corridor</span></strong></h2> 847<p><span style="color: #003366;">The RFQ says the present manganese export system in the Nelson Mandela Bay region has become increasingly fragmented, involving the ports of Port Elizabeth and Ngqura as well as a network of back-of-port storage facilities.</span></p> 848<p><span style="color: #003366;">Transnet says this has resulted in multiple handling points, increased road movements, higher logistics costs and growing environmental and social impacts.</span></p> 849<p><span style="color: #003366;">The NMEC is intended to consolidate the system around Ngqura, with rail forming the backbone of the export chain.</span></p> 850<p><span style="color: #003366;">The existing operation nevertheless demonstrates that there is a substantial underlying market. The RFQ says rail volumes from the Northern Cape to the Eastern Cape have exceeded 10 Mtpa in recent years, despite infrastructure degradation, theft, vandalism and operational constraints.</span></p> 851<p><span style="color: #003366;">That makes the proposed investment about more than simply adding terminal capacity. It is an attempt to rebuild and integrate the logistics chain needed to make that capacity usable.</span></p> 852<p><span style="color: #003366;">The procurement is now at the RFQ stage. A preferred consortium will eventually be selected through a two-stage process, with detailed commercial, technical and risk-allocation arrangements to be developed during the subsequent RFP process.</span></p> 853<p><span style="color: #003366;">The RFQ was published on 23 September 2026, with submissions due on 26 February 2027.</span></p> 854<p><span style="color: #003366;">The RFQ documentation is available on the Transnet e-Tender Portal at:</span><br /> 855<a href="https://transnetetenders.azurewebsites.net">https://transnetetenders.azurewebsites.net</a></p> 856<p><span style="color: #993300;">Added 27 September 2026</span></p> 857<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #3366ff;"> â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 858<p>News continues below</p> 859<div id="11905"></div> 860<p><span style="color: #ff0000;"><span style="font-size: xx-large;"><b><span style="color: #800000;">SAPREF:</span> <span style="color: #003366;">From R1 sale to R117-billion refinery revival plan</span></b></span></span></p> 861<figure id="attachment_90972" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-90972" style="width: 1500px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Sapref-Refinery.-Pictre-Sapref-via-Linkedin-1500.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-90972" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Sapref-Refinery.-Pictre-Sapref-via-Linkedin-1500.jpg" alt="" width="1500" height="750" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Sapref-Refinery.-Pictre-Sapref-via-Linkedin-1500.jpg 1500w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Sapref-Refinery.-Pictre-Sapref-via-Linkedin-1500-300x150.jpg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Sapref-Refinery.-Pictre-Sapref-via-Linkedin-1500-1024x512.jpg 1024w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Sapref-Refinery.-Pictre-Sapref-via-Linkedin-1500-768x384.jpg 768w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Sapref-Refinery.-Pictre-Sapref-via-Linkedin-1500-150x75.jpg 150w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Sapref-Refinery.-Pictre-Sapref-via-Linkedin-1500-500x250.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-90972" class="wp-caption-text"><span style="font-size: xx-small; color: #003366;"> Aerial view of the SAPREF refinery in Durban, adjacent to the former international airport.  Picture: photographer unidentified, if yours please advise</span></figcaption></figure> 862<p><span style="color: #003366;">Terry Hutson</span><br /> 863<strong><span style="color: #003366;"><span style="color: #ff0000;"><em>Africa</em></span> Ports & Ships</span></strong></p> 864<p><strong><span style="color: #003366;">The prospect of South Africa once again refining crude oil at Durban’s former SAPREF refinery has returned to the national agenda, but the proposal now being advanced by Mineral and Petroleum Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe is a very different proposition from simply restarting a refinery that was switched off four years ago.</span></strong></p> 865<p><span style="color: #003366;">Mantashe has called for National Treasury support for a proposed R117-billion (about US$7.15 billion) SAPREF redevelopment programme, arguing that restoring domestic refining capacity is necessary to strengthen South Africa’s energy security.</span></p> 866<p><span style="color: #003366;">The scale of the proposal is striking, particularly given that the refinery and its associated assets were acquired by the state-owned Central Energy Fund (CEF) in 2024 from Shell and BP for R1.</span></p> 867<p><span style="color: #003366;">SAPREF, which began operations in 1963, had a crude-processing capacity of about 180,000 barrels a day and was South Africa’s largest refinery. Its owners, Shell and BP, halted refining operations in 2022 after the refinery was severely damaged by the KwaZulu-Natal floods.</span></p> 868<p><span style="color: #003366;">But the floods were not the only reason for the closure.</span></p> 869<h2><strong><span style="color: #003366;">Why did Shell and BP walk away?</span></strong></h2> 870<p><span style="color: #003366;">SAPREF’s shareholders had already been reviewing the future of the refinery before the floods. In February 2022 they announced that they would freeze spending and pause operations while considering their options, with a sale being the preferred route.</span></p> 871<p><span style="color: #003366;">There were substantial economic considerations behind that decision.</span></p> 872<p><span style="color: #003366;">The international refining industry had changed considerably, with increasingly large and complex refineries in the Middle East and Asia able to produce fuels competitively. At the same time, older plants such as SAPREF required major investment to meet progressively tighter fuel-quality and environmental requirements.</span></p> 873<p><span style="color: #003366;">Engen reached a similar conclusion with its 120,000-barrel-a-day refinery, also in Durban. In 2021 it announced that the refinery would be converted into an import terminal after an independent viability study found the refinery financially unsustainable. Engen cited weak global refining margins, surplus international product supply and the substantial capital required to meet evolving fuel-quality and emissions standards.</span></p> 874<p><span style="color: #003366;">SAPREF had its own substantial maintenance and upgrading requirements. Investigations associated with the proposed acquisition identified significant maintenance needs, including corrosion and equipment requiring attention, together with substantial future expenditure. The 2022 floods subsequently compounded the physical condition of the plant.</span></p> 875<p><span style="color: #003366;">The result was that South Africa lost two major Durban refining operations within a relatively short period.</span></p> 876<h2><strong><span style="color: #003366;">The R1 refinery â but not a R1 project</span></strong></h2> 877<p><span style="color: #003366;">The state subsequently acquired the SAPREF precinct from Shell and BP for a nominal R1.</span></p> 878<p><span style="color: #003366;">The transaction included the refinery site, storage tanks, process units, pipelines connecting SAPREF with the Island View terminal and the Single Buoy Mooring used for crude imports. It did n
878ot, however, include the Island View terminal operation or the SAPREF operating company.</span></p> 879<p><span style="color: #003366;">The R1 purchase price therefore should not be confused with the cost of restoring the refinery.</span></p> 880<p><span style="color: #003366;">The CEF’s current plan is structured in phases. Initially, existing infrastructure would be used to generate revenue from activities including the storage and movement of imported petroleum products, storage leasing, LPG infrastructure, blending, laboratory services and trading.</span></p> 881<p><span style="color: #003366;">A second phase would target a refinery capable of processing about 400,000 barrels of crude oil a day, with a possible third phase increasing capacity to between 400,000 and 650,000 barrels a day, depending on investment, approvals and project milestones. A final investment decision is targeted for 2027/28.</span></p> 882<p><span style="color: #003366;">The proposal is therefore better understood as a major redevelopment using the existing SAPREF site and infrastructure rather than simply recommissioning the old 180,000-bpd refinery.</span></p> 883<h2><strong><span style="color: #003366;">Putting R117 billion into perspective</span></strong></h2> 884<p><span style="color: #003366;">The scale of the proposed investment can be put into perspective by looking at another major African refining project.</span></p> 885<p><span style="color: #003366;">Dangote’s proposed 700,000-barrel-a-day refinery at Lamu in Kenya is currently estimated at about US$16 billion, although earlier estimates were around US$17 billion and some recent Kenyan reporting has put the value at as much as US$20 billion. Groundbreaking is scheduled for the end of this month (September).</span></p> 886<p><span style="color: #003366;">The comparison is particularly interesting because the existing 650,000-bpd Dangote refinery in Lagos cost more than US$20 billion to build.</span></p> 887<p><span style="color: #003366;">The projects are not directly comparable. The Dangote plants are new-build mega-refineries, while SAPREF is an existing industrial site with substantial infrastructure that the CEF intends to incorporate into its redevelopment.</span></p> 888<p><span style="color: #003366;">Nevertheless, the comparison gives some perspective: South Africa’s proposed R117-billion (US$7.15-billion) multi-phase SAPREF programme represents a very substantial capital commitment even though its initial refining target of 400,000 bpd is below the nameplate capacity planned for the new Lamu refinery.</span></p> 889<h2><strong><span style="color: #003366;">What happens to the site in the meantime?</span></strong></h2> 890<p><span style="color: #003366;">The CEF has already identified the site’s existing tanks and infrastructure as potentially useful for importing and distributing finished petroleum products.</span></p> 891<p><span style="color: #003366;">That is significant because Durban’s former refining complex sits within one of the country’s most important petroleum logistics areas, connected by pipelines and other infrastructure to the Island View storage and distribution complex.</span></p> 892<p><span style="color: #003366;">The site therefore has value even without a working refinery.</span></p> 893<p><span style="color: #003366;">There have also been concerns about the environmental and decommissioning liabilities associated with the old refinery. The acquisition was concluded on an “as-is” basis, meaning that the state took ownership of the assets together with the associated responsibilities.</span></p> 894<h2><strong><span style="color: #003366;">A more import-dependent South Africa</span></strong></h2> 895<p><span style="color: #003366;">The disappearance of SAPREF and Engen from the refining landscape has had a measurable consequence: South Africa now relies much more heavily on imported refined petroleum products.</span></p> 896<p><span style="color: #003366;">The CEF says domestic refineries supplied about 78% of the country’s petroleum-product demand in 2019, compared with about 39% currently, with imports accounting for approximately 61%.</span></p> 897<p><span style="color: #003366;">South Africa currently has crude-refining capacity at Natref and Astron Energy, while Sasol’s Secunda coal-based synthetic-fuels manufacturing facility operation remains a major producer of liquid fuels. The loss of the Durban refineries has nevertheless left the country considerably more dependent on imported petrol, diesel and other refined products.</span></p> 898<p><span style="color: #003366;">That dependence exposes the domestic market more directly to international product prices, exchange-rate movements and disruptions to international shipping and energy supply.</span></p> 899<p><span style="color: #003366;">The issue has become particularly relevant during the current disruption to oil and shipping routes in and around the Middle East, where geopolitical developments can affect both crude and refined-product supply.</span></p> 900<p><span style="color: #003366;">Mantashe’s proposal therefore comes against a very different backdrop from that which led Shell and BP to withdraw from SAPREF.</span></p> 901<p><span style="color: #003366;">The question is no longer simply whether an ageing 180,000-barrel-a-day refinery can operate commercially.</span></p> 902<p><span style="color: #003366;">
902It is whether South Africa is prepared to commit R117 billion (about US$7.15 billion) to a much larger redevelopment of the Durban site, and whether the resulting refinery can be operated competitively and sustainably in the international market that ultimately made the future of the original SAPREF operation increasingly difficult for its private-sector owners.</span></p> 903<p><span style="color: #993300;">Added 27 September 2026</span></p> 904<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #3366ff;"> â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 905<p>News continues below</p> 906<div id="11917"></div> 907<p><span style="color: #008080;"><span style="font-size: xx-large;"><b>World Maritime Day 2026: <span style="color: #3366ff;">From Policy to Practice</span></b></span></span></p> 908<figure id="attachment_90978" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-90978" style="width: 1000px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/WMD-2026-IMO-HQ-in-blue-1000.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-90978" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/WMD-2026-IMO-HQ-in-blue-1000.jpg" alt="" width="1000" height="750" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/WMD-2026-IMO-HQ-in-blue-1000.jpg 1000w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/WMD-2026-IMO-HQ-in-blue-1000-300x225.jpg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/WMD-2026-IMO-HQ-in-blue-1000-768x576.jpg 768w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/WMD-2026-IMO-HQ-in-blue-1000-100x75.jpg 100w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/WMD-2026-IMO-HQ-in-blue-1000-150x113.jpg 150w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/WMD-2026-IMO-HQ-in-blue-1000-500x375.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-90978" class="wp-caption-text"><span style="font-size: xx-small; color: #003366;"> The IMO headquarters illuminated in blue for World Maritime Day, symbolising the global commitment to safe, secure, resilient shipping.   Picture: www.imo.org IMO ©   Click image to enlarge</span></figcaption></figure> 909<p><span style="color: #003366;">Edited by <strong><span style="color: #ff0000;">Paul Ridgway <a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/SELF-1-OCT-24-Picture-2-4-cropped-130-4.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-90979" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/SELF-1-OCT-24-Picture-2-4-cropped-130-4.jpg" alt="" width="130" height="103" /></a></span></strong></span><br /> 910<strong><span style="color: #003366;"><em><span style="color: #ff0000;">Africa</span></em> Ports & Ships</span></strong><br /> 911<span style="color: #003366;">London</span></p> 912<h2><span style="color: #008080;"><strong>Powering Maritime Excellence</strong></span></h2> 913<h3 style="text-align: center;"><strong>Global regulations will deliver safer, more resilient shipping when they are implemented worldwide</strong></h3> 914<p>On 24 September the international maritime community marked World Maritime Day as shipping continues to face the direct impacts of wider geopolitical tensions and conflict.</p> 915<p>Merchant ships have been attacked in many conflict zones â from the Strait of Hormuz to the Black Sea and Sea of Azov â resulting in the deaths of dozens of innocent seafarers, and the disruption of global trade and critical supply chains.</p> 916<p>Against this backdrop, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) is highlighting the importance of upholding and implementing the international regulatory framework that keeps shipping safe, secure and efficient, while protecting the people who work at sea.</p> 917<figure id="attachment_90980" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-90980" style="width: 225px" class="wp-caption alignright"><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/IMO-SG-Antonio-Dominguez-225-1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-90980" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/IMO-SG-Antonio-Dominguez-225-1.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="169" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/IMO-SG-Antonio-Dominguez-225-1.jpg 225w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/IMO-SG-Antonio-Dominguez-225-1-100x75.jpg 100w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/IMO-SG-Antonio-Dominguez-225-1-150x113.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 225px) 100v
917w, 225px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-90980" class="wp-caption-text"><span style="font-size: xx-small; color: #003366;"> On 24 September, World Maritime Day, IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez spoke to the world. Picture: www.imo.org IMO ©</span></figcaption></figure> 918<p>In his official message to mark the day, IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez said: “This year’s World Maritime Day theme, From Policy to Practice: Powering Maritime Excellence, recognizes the reality that regulations will deliver safer, more resilient, and cleaner shipping when they are implemented worldwide.</p> 919<p>“Implementation must make a difference where it matters most – for the people working at sea. Seafarers come first. Always.”</p> 920<h2><span style="color: #008080;"><strong>Video-recording</strong></span></h2> 921<p>A video-recording is available of the Secretary-Generalâs address by using the link <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PtYWSdmUNR8&t=3s"><b>here</b></a>.</p> 922<p>The World Maritime Day theme spans 2026 and 2027, allowing Member States and partners to focus on turning global policy decisions into practical outcomes.</p> 923<p>This includes translating IMO regulations into national legislation, strengthening enforcement, and enhancing training.</p> 924<h2><span style="color: #008080;"><strong>Closing the implementation gap</strong></span></h2> 925<p>A central part of IMOâs work is in supporting Member States to implement IMO regulations effectively.</p> 926<p>This year, IMO completed the first audit cycle under the IMO Member State Audit Scheme (IMSAS). Since the scheme became mandatory in 2016, 168 Member States (94% of the membership) have been audited on how effectively they meet their obligations under key IMO instruments.</p> 927<p>The findings revealed that many countries still struggle to translate IMO rules into national law, with shortage of technical expertise and infrastructure, and weak oversight of ships being key challenges.</p> 928<p>Based on this information, IMO will target technical assistance where it is needed most â including in Least Developed Countries and Small Island Developing States.</p> 929<p>Implementation, capacity and technical cooperation<br /> 930Effective implementation of international regulations ultimately hinges on capacity at national and local levels.</p> 931<h2><span style="color: #008080;"><strong>IMO support</strong></span></h2> 932<p>IMO supports countries through:</p> 933<p>⢠Technical assistance to draft or update national legislation, establish administrative frameworks, and strengthen enforcement.</p> 934<p>⢠Training programmes for administrations, ports and seafarers, supported by regional centres and partnerships.</p> 935<p>⢠Peer learning and knowledge exchange, through IMO projects, programmes and global networks.</p> 936<h2><span style="color: #008080;"><strong>WMD theme</strong></span></h2> 937<p>The World Maritime Day theme focuses on practical implementation across key areas of IMOâs work, including:</p> 938<p>⢠Safety and new technologies<br /> 939⢠Preparing shipping for decarbonisation<br /> 940⢠Tackling fraudulent ship registration and maritime fraud<br /> 941⢠Facilitation, digitalisation and resilience<br /> 942⢠Cyber security and maritime security<br /> 943⢠Marine environment protection beyond carbon</p> 944<p>Secretary-General Dominguez invited all Member States, intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations to also join the initiative by lighting up prominent buildings in blue.</p> 945<p>Everyone has been encouraged to share photos or stories on social media, showing how maritime policy is being put into practice, using the hashtags #WorldMaritimeDay and #MaritimePolicytoPractice.</p> 946<h2><span style="color: #008080;"><strong>Informative links</strong></span></h2> 947<p>To find out more about World Maritime Day 2026-2027 readers are invited to use the link <a href="https://www.imo.org/en/about/events/pages/world-maritime-theme-2026-2027.aspx"><b>here</b></a>.</p> 948<p>To read a message from UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, see <a href="https://wwwcdn.imo.org/localresources/en/MediaCentre/Documents/UNSG%20WMD%202026/%5bENGLISH%5d%20UN%20SGM%20on%20World%20Maritime%20Day%2024%20September%202026.pdf"><b>here</b></a>.</p> 949<p><span style="color: #993300;">Added 27 September 2026</span></p> 950<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #3366ff;"> â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 951<p>News continues below</p> 952<div id="11906"></div> 953<p><span style="color: #333399;"><span style="font-size: xx-large;"><b>Global disruption puts resilience of maritime trade in focus â DP World</b></span></span></p> 954<figure id="attachment_90968" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-90968" style="width: 800px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/800_02dpworldjebelali_sailingwithtugboat.jpeg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-90968" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/800_02dpworldjebelali_sailingwithtugboat.jpeg" alt="" width="800" height="449" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/800_02dpworldjebelali_sailingwithtugboat.jpeg 800w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/800_02dpworldjebelali_sailingwithtugboat-300x168.jpeg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/800_02dpworldjebelali_sailingwithtugboat-768x431.jpeg 768w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/800_02dpworldjebelali_sailingwithtugboat-150x84.jpeg 150w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/800_02dpworldjebelali_sailingwithtugboat-500x281.jpeg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100v
954w, 800px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-90968" class="wp-caption-text"><span style="font-size: xx-small; color: #003366;">DP World Jebel Ali sailing.  Picture: DP World   Click image to enlarge</span></figcaption></figure> 955<p><span style="color: #003366;"><strong><span style="color: #ff0000;"><em>Africa</em></span> Ports & Ships</strong></span></p> 956<p><strong>DP World says geopolitical tensions, climate pressures, changing trade policies and the geographical redistribution of manufacturing are reshaping global cargo flows and increasing the need for more adaptable shipping networks.</strong></p> 957<p>Global maritime trade is being reshaped by a combination of geopolitical disruption, climate pressures and changing trade policies, according to a new whitepaper published by DP World’s Marine Services business for World Maritime Day 2026.</p> 958<p>The report, Navigating the Future of Maritime Trade, argues that disruption to established shipping routes is becoming less of an occasional event and more of a factor that businesses need to incorporate into supply-chain planning.</p> 959<p>More than 80% of world merchandise trade by volume moves by sea, while the networks carrying an estimated $14 trillion in containerised goods are increasingly being tested by changing operating conditions, DP World says.</p> 960<p>The company argues that businesses consequently need greater choice in how cargo moves between markets, with feeder, coastal and shortsea shipping able to provide additional connections between regional ports, emerging production centres and the major international trade lanes.</p> 961<p>When integrated with road, rail and inland-waterway networks, these services can provide alternative gateways and routes when established corridors are disrupted.</p> 962<h2><span style="color: #333399;"><strong>Trade is being reconfigured</strong></span></h2> 963<p>DP World says the evidence points to global trade being reconfigured rather than reversed.</p> 964<p>Its 2026 Global Trade Observatory found that 94% of more than 3,500 supply-chain and logistics executives surveyed expect trade growth in 2026 to match or exceed 2025 levels.</p> 965<p>At the same time, manufacturing is becoming more geographically dispersed, with India, Southeast Asia, Latin America, the Middle East and Africa taking larger roles in global production.</p> 966<p>The report identifies four structural forces affecting maritime trade: geopolitical disruption, climate pressures, changing trade policies and increasingly distributed manufacturing.</p> 967<p>The result is the continued growth of regional and South-South trade.</p> 968<p>According to the figures cited by DP World, merchandise exports between developing economies increased from about US$500 billion in 1995 to US$8.8 trillion in 2025 â almost 20-fold. More than half of developing-country exports are now destined for other developing markets.</p> 969<p>That trend has particular significance for Africa, where growing intra-African and South-South trade could create demand for more regional maritime connections rather than relying exclusively on traditional long-distance mainline services.</p> 970<h2><span style="color: #333399;"><strong>The rise of connected trade corridors</strong></span></h2> 971<p>Ganesh Raj, Global COO of DP World’s Marine Services business, said greater adaptability would become increasingly important to business confidence and growth.</p> 972<figure id="attachment_90969" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-90969" style="width: 225px" class="wp-caption alignright"><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/ganesh-raj-dpworld-225.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-90969" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/ganesh-raj-dpworld-225.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/ganesh-raj-dpworld-225.jpg 225w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/ganesh-raj-dpworld-225-150x200.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 225px) 100vw, 225px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-90969" class="wp-caption-text"><span style="font-size: xx-small; color: #003366;">Ganesh Raj.  </span></figcaption></figure> 973<p>He described DP World’s concept of “Connected Trade Corridors” as an approach that links ports, marine services and inland logistics to provide alternative routes when conditions change.</p> 974<p>“The first generation of global trade connected markets,” Raj said. “The next must connect those markets through smarter, more adaptable networks.”</p> 975<p>DP World says its Marine Services network currently connects more than 200 ports across Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, the Middle East, Africa, Asia and the Americas, supported by a fleet of more than 500 vessels.</p> 976<p>The company’s current Shipping Solutions operation includes feeder, shortsea and coastal services, with DP World saying its network makes more than 16,000 port calls across more than 200 ports.</p> 977<h2><span style="color: #333399;"><strong>Optionality becomes increasingly important</strong></span></h2> 978<p>The central argument of the whitepaper is that efficiency alone may no longer be sufficient for global supply chains.</p> 979<p>Instead, DP World says businesses need route optionality â the ability to change the physical route taken by cargo without breaking the wider logistics chain.</p> 980<p>This means strengthening connections between regional and global markets and combining maritime services with inland transport networks.</p> 981<p>For Africa, that could have implications beyond the traditional role of ports as gateways for long-distance trade. Regional feedering and shortsea services could become increasingly important as production and consumption patterns develop within the continent and between Africa and other emerging markets.</p> 982<p>DP World says the next generation of maritime trade will therefore depend increasingly on the strength and adaptability of networks linking regional and global trade corridors.</p> 983<p>The company has made integrated connectivity a growing part of its broader logistics strategy. Its Marine Services business combines shipping, multimodal and maritime services, linking sea transport with road, rail and inland-waterway connections.</p> 984<p>For Africa, the message is particularly relevant: as trade patterns become more dispersed, the strength of the continent’s future maritime network may depend as much on the connections between its ports as on the capacity of the individual ports themselves.</p> 985<p>Access to DP World’s Navigating the Future of Maritime Trade whitepaper is available <a href="https://www.dpworld.com/en/news/download/a33f82e9-6ec6-4c68-a14
9851-cf4d754e200f/24.09.26marineservices_whitepaperfactsheet.pdf"><b>here</b></a></p> 986<p><span style="color: #993300;">Added 27 September 2026</span></p> 987<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #3366ff;"> â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 988<p>News continues below</p> 989<div id="11908"></div> 990<p><span style="color: #0000ff;"><span style="font-size: xx-large;"><b>Mpungu opens a new chapter for Lake Victoria shipping</b></span></span></p> 991<figure id="attachment_90964" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-90964" style="width: 1500px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/EAMT_002-MPUNGU-1500.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-90964" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/EAMT_002-MPUNGU-1500.jpg" alt="" width="1500" height="1072" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/EAMT_002-MPUNGU-1500.jpg 1500w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/EAMT_002-MPUNGU-1500-300x214.jpg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/EAMT_002-MPUNGU-1500-1024x732.jpg 1024w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/EAMT_002-MPUNGU-1500-768x549.jpg 768w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/EAMT_002-MPUNGU-1500-150x107.jpg 150w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/EAMT_002-MPUNGU-1500-500x357.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-90964" class="wp-caption-text"><span style="font-size: xx-small; color: #003366;"> mv Mpungu during her maiden voyage on Lake Victoria in 2025.  Picture: EAMT.  Click image to enlarge</span></figcaption></figure> 992<p><strong><span style="color: #003366;"><em><span style="color: #ff0000;">Africa</span></em> Ports & Ships</span></strong></p> 993<p><strong>The MV MPUNGU, the purpose-built roll-on/roll-off freight vessel that has been pioneering scheduled cargo shipping on Lake Victoria, has made its first cargo delivery to Bukoba in Tanzania, adding another destination to what is becoming an increasingly important inland waterway network.</strong></p> 994<p>The vessel recently transported and offloaded cargo at the Bukoba Landing Site, according to East Africa Marine Transport (EAMT), the company behind the service. The operation is significant because the Mpungu was originally introduced principally to provide a scheduled freight connection between Port Bell in Uganda and Mwanza South Port in Tanzania.</p> 995<p>The vessel now also serves Kisumu in Kenya and has begun reaching other points around the lake.</p> 996<p>For a vessel whose progress Africa Ports & Ships has followed since her launch, the Bukoba call represents another step in demonstrating that Lake Victoria can function as a genuine regional freight corridor rather than simply as a collection of largely independent lake ports and landing sites.</p> 997<h2><strong>From Entebbe to Lake Victoria’s trade routes</strong></h2> 998<p>The Mpungu was launched in February 2024 at the SECO Marine shipyard at Entebbe, Uganda, after 21 months of construction.</p> 999<p>At 96 metres long and 17.5 metres wide, the vessel was specifically designed for Lake Victoria freight operations. She can carry up to 21 fully laden trucks, equivalent to about 1,000 tonnes of cargo, making her substantially different from the passenger ferries and smaller cargo vessels traditionally associated with the lake.</p> 1000<p>Operations began in January 2025, with the vessel providing what was described as Lake Victoria’s first fixed-day scheduled roll-on/roll-off freight service. The principal route was between Port Bell, serving Kampala, and Mwanza South Port.</p> 1001<p>For the sake of readers unfanilar with Lake Victoria’s geography, that meant operating the length of the giant lake from north to south and back again.<br /> 1002<p?> The attraction is straightforward: a lake crossing can remove a substantial part of the long road journey around Lake Victoria. The scheduled service was designed to reduce a road journey of three to four days to about 18 hours by water, while also reducing road congestion, fuel consumption and driver fatigue.</p> 1003<figure id="attachment_90965" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-90965" style="width: 800px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/MPUNGU-berthing-at-Bukoba-for-first-time-pic-EAMT.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-90965" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/MPUNGU-berthing-at-Bukoba-for-first-time-pic-EAMT.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="600" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/MPUNGU-berthing-at-Bukoba-for-first-time-pic-EAMT.jpg 800w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/MPUNGU-berthing-at-Bukoba-for-first-time-pic-EAMT-300x225.jpg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/MPUNGU-berthing-at-Bukoba-for-first-time-pic-EAMT-768x576.jpg 768w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/MPUNGU-berthing-at-Bukoba-for-first-time-pic-EAMT-100x75.jpg 100w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/MPUNGU-berthing-at-Bukoba-for-first-time-pic-EAMT-150x113.jpg 150w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/MPUNGU-berthing-at-Bukoba-for-first-time-pic-EAMT-500x375.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100v
1003w, 800px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-90965" class="wp-caption-text"><span style="font-size: xx-small; color: #003366;"> mv Mpungu arriving at Bukoba on her maiden visit.  Picture: EAMT.  Click image to enlarge</span></figcaption></figure> 1004<h2><span style="color: #0000ff;"><strong>Why Bukoba matters</strong></span></h2> 1005<p>Bukoba is on the western shore of Lake Victoria in Tanzania’s Kagera Region, relatively close to the Ugandan border and strategically positioned to serve communities and businesses in the region.</p> 1006<p>The Bukoba Landing Site is not in the same category as the major commercial ports of Mwanza, but that is precisely what makes the Mpungu call interesting. The development of scheduled lake shipping does not depend solely on major ports. A network of smaller landing points can provide links between production and consumption centres around the lake and the principal ports at Mwanza, Port Bell and Kisumu.</p> 1007<p>Bukoba already has a maritime connection with Mwanza. Tanzania’s new MV MWANZA began services to Bukoba in October 2025, carrying both passengers and cargo, and the route includes Kemondo Bay. The vessel has a stated capacity of up to 1,200 passengers and 400 tonnes of cargo.</p> 1008<p>The arrival of the Mpungu therefore adds a dedicated freight capability to a lake transport system in which passenger, vehicle and cargo services are increasingly developing alongside one another.</p> 1009<h2><span style="color: #0000ff;"><strong>A lake becoming a logistics corridor</strong></span></h2> 1010<p>Lake Victoria is Africa’s largest lake, shared by Tanzania, Uganda and Kenya, and its basin extends into Rwanda and Burundi. More than 40 million people live within the wider basin, making the lake potentially important not only for local transport but for regional trade.</p> 1011<p>For decades, however, much of the region’s commercial freight has travelled by road, despite the lake’s enormous potential as an inland waterway.</p> 1012<p>That is beginning to change.</p> 1013<p>The rehabilitation and development of facilities such as Kisumu Port, Port Bell and Mwanza, together with new vessels such as the Mpungu, are creating the beginnings of a more integrated lake transport system. Kisumu, for example, has been handling fuel barges, fertiliser and other cargo destined for Uganda and Tanzania, while Mwanza remains a major node connecting the lake region with Tanzania’s wider transport network.</p> 1014<p>The Mpungu is an important part of that transition because she was conceived specifically around the concept of scheduled freight, rather than occasional or opportunistic lake transport.</p> 1015<p>Her arrival at Bukoba is therefore a small but significant development: it shows the service beginning to reach beyond its original route and, potentially, to link more of the lake’s scattered landing points into a coherent regional logistics network.</p> 1016<p>For East Africa, the objective is not merely to put more ships on Lake Victoria. It is to make the lake itself part of the region’s transport infrastructure.</p> 1017<p>The Mpungu is helping to demonstrate how that might be done.</p> 1018<p><span style="color: #993300;">Added 27 September 2026</span></p> 1019<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #3366ff;"> â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 1020<p>News continues below</p> 1021<div id="11902"></div> 1022<p><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-size: xx-large;"><b>Transnet launches private-sector process for Ngqura manganese corridor</b></span></span></p> 1023<figure id="attachment_90949" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-90949" style="width: 1024px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Manganese-Terminal-Port-Elizabeth-TPT-pic-1024.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-90949" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Manganese-Terminal-Port-Elizabeth-TPT-pic-1024.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="681" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Manganese-Terminal-Port-Elizabeth-TPT-pic-1024.jpg 1024w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Manganese-Terminal-Port-Elizabeth-TPT-pic-1024-300x200.jpg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Manganese-Terminal-Port-Elizabeth-TPT-pic-1024-768x511.jpg 768w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Manganese-Terminal-Port-Elizabeth-TPT-pic-1024-420x280.jpg 420w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Manganese-Terminal-Port-Elizabeth-TPT-pic-1024-150x100.jpg 150w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Manganese-Terminal-Port-Elizabeth-TPT-pic-1024-500x333.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-90949" class="wp-caption-text"><span style="font-size: xx-small; color: #003366;"> The existing manganese terminal at Port Elizabeth, which will close after transferring terminal facilities to nearby Ngqura.  Picture: Transnet  Click image to enlarge</span></figcaption></figure> 1024<p><span style="color: #003366;"><strong><span style="color: #ff0000;"><em>Africa</em></span> Ports & Ships</strong></span></p> 1025<h3 style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="color: #333333;"><strong>Long-planned project would consolidate South Africa’
1025s manganese exports at Ngqura and link a new export terminal to an upgraded rail corridor from the Northern Cape</strong></span></em></h3> 1026<p>Transnet has taken a major step towards establishing a dedicated manganese export facility at the Port of Ngqura, issuing a Request for Qualification (RFQ) for a private-sector strategic partner to develop and operate the proposed Ngqura Manganese Export Corridor (NMEC) for 25 years.</p> 1027<p>The RFQ, issued on 25 September, is the first stage of a competitive procurement process through which Transnet intends to select a consortium with the technical, operational and financial capacity to participate in the project.</p> 1028<p>The proposed corridor will link the manganese-producing area around Hotazel in the Northern Cape with Ngqura in the Eastern Cape, where a new dedicated manganese export terminal is planned.</p> 1029<p>The proposed terminal is not confined to the quayside. The project envisages an integrated back-of-port manganese handling facility within the Coega Special Economic Zone, linked by rail to the Northern Cape and by conveyor to the export berths at Ngqura.</p> 1030<p>Earlier planning documents identified Zone 9 for the stockpile and handling facilities, with an exchange yard in Zone 11.</p> 1031<p>Transnet says the project is expected to increase rail exports by about 20%, while creating a more efficient and competitive export supply chain for South Africa’s manganese industry.</p> 1032<p>The RFQ forms part of Transnet’s broader Private Sector Participation programme, through which private investment and operational expertise are being sought for strategic freight infrastructure.</p> 1033<p>The project is considerably broader than the construction of a new port terminal. The intention is to develop an integrated export corridor in which rail and port capacity are aligned with the requirements of the manganese industry.</p> 1034<p>Earlier Transnet planning documents envisaged a 12-million-tonne-a-year Ngqura manganese terminal, supported by increased rail capacity from the Northern Cape. The longer-term vision is for combined manganese export capacity through the Ngqura and Saldanha corridors to reach about 12 Mtpa initially, with further expansion possible as demand develops.</p> 1035<p>The need for the project is partly driven by limitations at existing export facilities. Transnet’s project documentation notes that the existing bulk manganese export arrangements in the Eastern Cape are fragmented and that the Port Elizabeth bulk terminal is ultimately required to be decommissioned for environmental reasons.</p> 1036<p>Consolidating exports at Ngqura would therefore provide a dedicated modern facility while allowing the associated rail infrastructure to be upgraded to support higher volumes.</p> 1037<h2><span style="color: #333333;"><strong>Private sector to play central role</strong></span></h2> 1038<p>The RFQ requires prospective partners to demonstrate technical capability, relevant operating experience and financial capacity. They will also have to set out how they would deliver sustainable socio-economic benefits and community upliftment through the project.</p> 1039<p>Those meeting the qualification requirements will be invited to participate in the subsequent Request for Proposals (RFP) stage.</p> 1040<p>The RFQ is open until 26 February 2027, with a non-compulsory briefing session scheduled for 28 October.</p> 1041<p>The project is being regarded as a significant private-sector opportunity, including the new terminal and rehabilitation of supporting rail infrastructure.</p> 1042<h2><span style="color: #333333;"><strong>A strategic export corridor</strong></span></h2> 1043<p>The importance of the project extends beyond manganese.</p> 1044<p>South Africa is one of the world’s major manganese producers and exporters, and the reliability of its rail and port logistics is critical to maintaining its position in international markets.</p> 1045<p>The proposed NMEC is therefore an example of the new approach being taken to South Africa’s freight logistics system: rather than concentrating investment solely on individual terminals, rail infrastru
1045cture, train operations and port handling are increasingly being considered as an integrated supply chain.</p> 1046<p>That approach is particularly relevant as South Africa introduces open access to its freight rail network and seeks private investment in strategic corridors.</p> 1047<p>The Ngqura project was identified earlier this year by government as one of the major private-sector participation projects expected to advance to market during 2026, alongside the Richards Bay Dry Bulk Terminal and the GautengâeThekwini container corridor.</p> 1048<p>For Ngqura, however, the significance is especially clear: the new manganese terminal will only achieve its full potential if the railway feeding it can reliably deliver the ore from the Northern Cape.</p> 1049<p>The RFQ marks the point at which that long-discussed concept moves from planning towards a competitive process for finding a private-sector partner.</p> 1050<p>The RFQ documentation is available on the Transnet e-Tender Portal at:<br /> 1051<a href="https://transnetetenders.azurewebsites.net">https://transnetetenders.azurewebsites.net</a></p> 1052<p><span style="color: #993300;">Added 25 September 2026</span></p> 1053<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #3366ff;"> â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 1054<p>News continues below</p> 1055<div id="11879"></div> 1056<p><span style="color: #003300;"><span style="font-size: xx-large;"><b>Batavia returns to the dock where her story began</b></span></span></p> 1057<figure id="attachment_90940" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-90940" style="width: 1280px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Batavia-langs-het-centrum-van-Amsterdam.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-90940" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Batavia-langs-het-centrum-van-Amsterdam.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="853" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Batavia-langs-het-centrum-van-Amsterdam.jpg 1280w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Batavia-langs-het-centrum-van-Amsterdam-300x200.jpg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Batavia-langs-het-centrum-van-Amsterdam-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Batavia-langs-het-centrum-van-Amsterdam-768x512.jpg 768w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Batavia-langs-het-centrum-van-Amsterdam-420x280.jpg 420w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Batavia-langs-het-centrum-van-Amsterdam-150x100.jpg 150w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Batavia-langs-het-centrum-van-Amsterdam-500x333.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-90940" class="wp-caption-text"><span style="font-size: xx-small; color: #003366;"> Pictures: Damen. Click image to enlarge</span></figcaption></figure> 1058<p><strong><span style="color: #003366;"><span style="color: #ff0000;">Africa</span> Ports & Ships</span></strong></p> 1059<h3><span style="color: #003366;"><em><strong>There was a time when ships like Batavia would have been a familiar sight in Table Bay.</strong></em></span></h3> 1060<p>The great Dutch East India Company retourschepen â heavily built sailing ships carrying cargo, passengers and supplies between the Netherlands and the Dutch East Indies â regularly called at the Cape of Good Hope during the long voyage between Europe and Asia.</p> 1061<p>Now, more than three centuries after the original Batavia sailed those routes, a full-scale reconstruction of the famous 1628 vessel has embarked on her own remarkable final voyage.</p> 1062<p>The 56.6-metre wooden Batavia arrived at Damen Shiprepair Amsterdam on Saturday, 19 September, after a six-hour tow by two tugs operated by Koninklijke Van der Wees.</p> 1063<p>Her destination was particularly appropriate: dry dock 4, the very dock from which this extraordinary reconstruction was launched and christened by Queen Beatrix on 7 April 1995.</p> 1064<p>But this time there will be no launching ceremony.</p> 1065<p>Instead, the Batavia is being prepared for permanent life ashore at Museum Batavialand in Lelystad.</p> 1066<p>And getting her there is proving to be almost as fascinating as the ship herself.</p> 1067<figure id="attachment_90942" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-90942" style="width: 1280px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Publiek-wacht-op-de-afvaart-van-de-Batavia-ovv-Sander-Wit.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-90942" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Publiek-wacht-op-de-afvaart-van-de-Batavia-ovv-Sander-Wit.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="960" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Publiek-wacht-op-de-afvaart-van-de-Batavia-ovv-Sander-Wit.jpg 1280w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Publiek-wacht-op-de-afvaart-van-de-Batavia-ovv-Sander-Wit-300x225.jpg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Publiek-wacht-op-de-afvaart-van-de-Batavia-ovv-Sander-Wit-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Publiek-wacht-op-de-afvaart-van-de-Batavia-ovv-Sander-Wit-768x576.jpg 768w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Publiek-wacht-op-de-afvaart-van-de-Batavia-ovv-Sander-Wit-100x75.jpg 100w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Publiek-wacht-op-de-afvaart-van-de-Batavia-ovv-Sander-Wit-150x113.jpg 150w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Publiek-wacht-op-de-afvaart-van-de-Batavia-ovv-Sander-Wit-500x375.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1280px) 100v
1067w, 1280px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-90942" class="wp-caption-text"><span style="font-size: xx-small; color: #003366;"> Pictures: Damen. Click image to enlarge</span></figcaption></figure> 1068<h2><span style="color: #003300;"><strong>A ship that has outlived the originals</strong></span></h2> 1069<p>The Batavia is an authentic full-scale reconstruction of the Dutch East India Company’s retourschip of the same name, which was launched in 1628 and famously wrecked on her maiden voyage to the East Indies in 1629.</p> 1070<p>The modern Batavia, built using traditional techniques and materials, has now been afloat for 31 years.</p> 1071<p>That is remarkable in itself.</p> 1072<p>Seventeenth-century wooden ships of this type generally had working lives of perhaps 15 to 25 years. The reconstructed Batavia has therefore already exceeded the service life that would have been expected of many of the originals she represents.</p> 1073<p>But three decades in the water have taken their toll.</p> 1074<p>Her wooden hull is now sufficiently fragile that the ship cannot simply be lifted in the conventional manner. Indeed, she was towed to Amsterdam afloat rather than transported on a pontoon because putting the hull on a pontoon for the voyage would have subjected it to loads for which it was never designed.</p> 1075<p>She therefore made the journey with her own hull in the water, her masts still standing and with an air draught of 30.5 metres.</p> 1076<p>Before the tow, her guns and much of her ballast were removed and temporary steel shoring was installed inside the hull and on the decks.</p> 1077<p>The reason is simple: water has been supporting the ship’s weight for 31 years. Once that buoyancy disappears, the loads on the wooden structure change dramatically.</p> 1078<figure id="attachment_90944" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-90944" style="width: 1200px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/batavia-at-damen-shiprepair-amsterdam-for-historic-preservation-2.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-90944" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/batavia-at-damen-shiprepair-amsterdam-for-historic-preservation-2.jpg" alt="" width="1200" height="675" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/batavia-at-damen-shiprepair-amsterdam-for-historic-preservation-2.jpg 1200w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/batavia-at-damen-shiprepair-amsterdam-for-historic-preservation-2-300x169.jpg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/batavia-at-damen-shiprepair-amsterdam-for-historic-preservation-2-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/batavia-at-damen-shiprepair-amsterdam-for-historic-preservation-2-768x432.jpg 768w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/batavia-at-damen-shiprepair-amsterdam-for-historic-preservation-2-150x84.jpg 150w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/batavia-at-damen-shiprepair-amsterdam-for-historic-preservation-2-500x281.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-90944" class="wp-caption-text"><span style="font-size: xx-small; color: #003366;"> Pictures: Damen. Click image to enlarge</span></figcaption></figure> 1079<h2><span style="color: #003300;"><strong>A 100-tonne cradle for a 650-tonne ship</strong></span></h2> 1080<p>The solution is a specially engineered cradle weighing more than 100 tonnes, consisting of 87.2 tonnes of steel and 14 tonnes of wood.</p> 1081<p>The cradle measures 39.7 metres by 15.5 metres and has been designed to support the Batavia at carefully calculated points along her hull.</p> 1082<p>The engineering behind it has taken about 14 months.</p> 1083<p>FaraFlash established the ship’s dimensions and weight and developed the basic cradle concept. Q3 Heavy Lift undertook the detailed engineering of the support and jacking arrangements, while Kuperus & Gardenier independently verified the dimensions and weight and advised on the most vulnerable areas of the hull.</p> 1084<p>There is an interesting historical connection here too.</p> 1085<p>Jan Kuperus and Rienk Gardenier actually trained as apprentices during the original construction of the reconstructed Batavia, working under shipwright Willem Vos.</p> 1086<p>The cradle itself was fabricated by Niron Staal.</p> 1087<p>At Damen, the operation is being carried out with the sort of precision normally associated with moving industrial structures rather than historic wooden sailing ships.</p> 1088<p>Crane mats will distribute the loads, support pots will be positioned and the cradle will be lowered into the dry dock on a specially prepared pontoon.</p> 1089<p>The Batavia will then be manoeuvred over the cradle by two small tugs.</p> 1090<p>The dock will be pumped dry and the ship allowed to settle onto her supports under controlled conditions.</p> 1091<p>
1091Even then, the work is not finished.</p> 1092<p>Once the dock is dry, the spaces between hull and cradle will be carefully packed with timber so that the structure beds itself securely around the ship.</p> 1093<p>Only after that can the pontoon be refloated and the Batavia moved to the quay.</p> 1094<p>Her final hull weight when she leaves Amsterdam will be close to 650 tonnes.</p> 1095<figure id="attachment_90945" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-90945" style="width: 1200px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/batavia-at-damen-shiprepair-amsterdam-for-historic-preservation-1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-90945" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/batavia-at-damen-shiprepair-amsterdam-for-historic-preservation-1.jpg" alt="" width="1200" height="674" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/batavia-at-damen-shiprepair-amsterdam-for-historic-preservation-1.jpg 1200w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/batavia-at-damen-shiprepair-amsterdam-for-historic-preservation-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/batavia-at-damen-shiprepair-amsterdam-for-historic-preservation-1-1024x575.jpg 1024w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/batavia-at-damen-shiprepair-amsterdam-for-historic-preservation-1-768x431.jpg 768w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/batavia-at-damen-shiprepair-amsterdam-for-historic-preservation-1-150x84.jpg 150w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/batavia-at-damen-shiprepair-amsterdam-for-historic-preservation-1-500x281.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-90945" class="wp-caption-text"><span style="font-size: xx-small; color: #003366;"> Pictures: Damen. Click image to enlarge</span></figcaption></figure> 1096<h2><span style="color: #003300;"><strong>A maritime circle completed</strong></span></h2> 1097<p>For Damen Shiprepair, the project has an unusual resonance.</p> 1098<p>Paul van de Craats, the yard’s commercial manager, remembers following the construction of the Batavia during his own training years.</p> 1099<p>What impressed him then was not merely that an historic ship was being recreated, but that the project was also being used to teach young people traditional carpentry and shipbuilding skills.</p> 1100<p>There is a pleasing parallel with the present operation, in which Damen continues to train its own workforce through practical ship-repair work.</p> 1101<p>“Dutch maritime history came into dock 4 in 1995 and it is back now,” van de Craats said.</p> 1102<p>It is an appropriate description.</p> 1103<p>The Batavia entered the dock three decades ago as a new ship recreating the maritime technology of the 17th century.</p> 1104<p>She is returning as a historic artefact in her own right â and one that now requires 21st-century engineering simply to preserve what remains of the 20th-century reconstruction.</p> 1105<p>For the people arranging the move, that combination has made the project rather different from their normal work.</p> 1106<p>Trans Global Projects, which is managing the project, normally deals with transformers and offshore structures. This time the cargo happens to be a 17th-century East Indiaman.</p> 1107<p>“Itâs highly public and has enormous historical value,” project manager Ard Suvaal said.</p> 1108<p>The next stage will take the Batavia back to Lelystad on a pontoon, scheduled for 1 October, followed by the carefully planned move ashore at Museum Batavialand on 2 October.</p> 1109<p>Weather and operating conditions will, naturally, have the final say.</p> 1110<p>But once safely ashore, the Batavia will have completed a voyage that is almost as unusual as the ship itself â from a 1628 East Indiaman, through a 1995 reconstruction and 31 years afloat, to a new permanent berth on land.</p> 1111<p>For South Africans, there is perhaps an added sense of familiarity.</p> 1112<p>The original vessels of which Batavia is a remarkably tangible reminder were among the ships that made the Cape a crucial halfway station on the long sea road between Europe and Asia.</p> 1113<p>Today, there are no Dutch East Indiamen riding at anchor in Table Bay.</p> 1114<p>But in Lelystad, one very convincing reminder of that era is about to come ashore for good.</p> 1115<p><span style="color: #993300;">Added 25 September 2026</span></p> 1116<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #3366ff;"> â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 1117<p>News continues below</p> 1118<div id="11897"></div> 1119<p><span style="color: #ff0000;"><span style="font-size: xx-large;"><b><span style="color: #0000ff;">Maritime Single Window implementation –</span> IMO seeks feedback</b></span></span></p> 1120<figure id="attachment_90934" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-90934" style="width: 700px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TAKE-THE-SURVEY-Maritime-Single-Window-Evaluation_banner-1-1-700.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-90934" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TAKE-THE-SURVEY-Maritime-Single-Window-Evaluation_banner-1-1-700.jpg" alt="" width="700" height="187" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TAKE-THE-SURVEY-Maritime-Single-Window-Evaluation_banner-1-1-700.jpg 700w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TAKE-THE-SURVEY-Maritime-Single-Window-Evaluation_banner-1-1-700-300x80.jpg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TAKE-THE-SURVEY-Maritime-Single-Window-Evaluation_banner-1-1-700-150x40.jpg 150w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TAKE-THE-SURVEY-Maritime-Single-Window-Evaluation_banner-1-1-700-500x134.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 700px) 100v
1120w, 700px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-90934" class="wp-caption-text"><span style="color: #003366;">Picture: www.imo.org IMO ©.</span></figcaption></figure> 1121<p><span style="color: #003366;">Edited by <span style="color: #ff0000;"><strong>Paul Ridgway <a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/SELF-1-OCT-24-Picture-2-4-cropped-130-2.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-90827" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/SELF-1-OCT-24-Picture-2-4-cropped-130-2.jpg" alt="" width="130" height="103" /></a></strong></span></span><br /> 1122<strong><span style="color: #003366;"><em><span style="color: #ff0000;">Africa</span></em> Ports & Ships</span></strong><br /> 1123<span style="color: #003366;">London</span></p> 1124<p><strong><span style="color: #003366;">The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has launched a global survey to assess the implementation and use of Maritime Single Windows (MSWs), inviting feedback from organisations and individuals involved in maritime information exchange.</span></strong></p> 1125<h2><span style="color: #0000ff;"><strong>What is a Maritime Single Window?</strong></span></h2> 1126<p>A Maritime Single Window (MSW) is a centralised digital platform that enables the streamlined exchange of information among ships and various government agencies during port calls. Its use became mandatory under the IMO Convention on Facilitation of International Maritime Traffic (FAL Convention) on 1 January 2024.</p> 1127<p>MSWs are a key component of shipping digitalisation: they provide a single electronic entry point for the submission of information required when ships arrive in, stay at and depart from ports. By enabling data to be submitted only once and then shared among relevant authorities, MSWs help reduce administrative burdens, improve efficiency and transparency, and facilitate smoother port operations.</p> 1128<h2><span style="color: #0000ff;"><strong>Why a survey?</strong></span></h2> 1129<p>Two years after this requirement entered into force, the survey aims to provide a clearer picture of how MSWs are being used across countries.</p> 1130<p>Findings will identify implementation challenges, good practices and capacity-building needs, supporting countries in their efforts to further modernise maritime transport procedures.</p> 1131<p>This exercise forms part of IMOâs ongoing work to support Member States in implementing the FAL Convention and advancing maritime digitalisation through technical cooperation.</p> 1132<h2><span style="color: #ff0000;"><strong>Who should participate?</strong></span></h2> 1133<p>The survey is open to maritime administrations, port authorities, customs and border control agencies, port community system operators, shipping companies, ship agents, terminal operators, freight forwarders and other stakeholders using MSW systems.</p> 1134<p>A follow-up survey is planned for 2028 to assess progress since 2026 and measure the impact of MSWs on users’ workload and operational efficiency.</p> 1135<h2><span style="color: #0000ff;"><strong>Take part in the survey</strong></span></h2> 1136<p>IMO encourages all organisations and individuals involved in maritime information exchange to participate and share their experiences. Your feedback will help shape future IMO support and contribute to the continued development of efficient and user-focused Maritime Single Window systems worldwide.</p> 1137<h2><span style="color: #0000ff;"><strong>Deadline</strong></span></h2> 1138<p>The survey is open until 31 October 2026.</p> 1139<p>Readers are invited to share their experience of MSWs by using the link available <a href="https://forms.cloud.microsoft/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=OHM9rD1gZ0WZHcirS4nCE8w2S2ldc55Gnw9odm_PLz9UMjZKNFpHTUVPNk85Q00zMTBVUzJLS0hGSS4u&route=shorturl"><b>here</b></a>.</p> 1140<p><span style="color: #993300;">Added 24 September 2026</span></p> 1141<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #3366ff;"> â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 1142<p>News continues below</p> 1143<div id="11891"></div> 1144<p><span style="color: #666699;"><span style="font-size: xx-large;"><b>Tanger Med handles 84 Mt in first half as shipping networks adjust to Suez recovery</b></span></span></p> 1145<figure id="attachment_90931" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-90931" style="width: 1500px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Tanger-MED-pic-6-Tanger-Med-Port-Authority-pic-1500.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-90931" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Tanger-MED-pic-6-Tanger-Med-Port-Authority-pic-1500.jpg" alt="" width="1500" height="844" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Tanger-MED-pic-6-Tanger-Med-Port-Authority-pic-1500.jpg 1500w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Tanger-MED-pic-6-Tanger-Med-Port-Authority-pic-1500-300x169.jpg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Tanger-MED-pic-6-Tanger-Med-Port-Authority-pic-1500-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Tanger-MED-pic-6-Tanger-Med-Port-Authority-pic-1500-768x432.jpg 768w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Tanger-MED-pic-6-Tanger-Med-Port-Authority-pic-1500-150x84.jpg 150w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Tanger-MED-pic-6-Tanger-Med-Port-Authority-pic-1500-500x281.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100v
1145w, 1500px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-90931" class="wp-caption-text"><span style="font-size: xx-small; color: #003366;"> The Port of Tanger Med, Morocco.  Picture: Tanger Med Port Authority.  Click image to enlarge</span></figcaption></figure> 1146<p><span style="color: #003366;"><strong><span style="color: #ff0000;"><em>Africa</em></span> Ports & Ships</strong></span></p> 1147<p><span style="color: #003366;"><strong>Morocco’s Tanger Med port complex handled 84 million tonnes of cargo during the first half of 2026, maintaining its strong growth trajectory while shipping lines continue adjusting networks between Asia, Europe and Africa as Suez Canal traffic gradually recovers.</strong></span></p> 1148<p>Tanger Med Port Authority (TMPA) handled 84 million tonnes of cargo during the first six months of 2026, an increase of 6% over the corresponding period last year.</p> 1149<p>The second quarter accounted for 45 million tonnes, indicating that activity accelerated during the April-June period. TMPA’s turnover reached MAD2.479 billion (about US$270 million) by the end of June, up 8.6% year on year, with second-quarter revenue increasing 11.2% to MAD1.293 billion. The financial figures were disclosed through Morocco’s capital-market authority.</p> 1150<p>The first-half performance extends the port’s rapid expansion of recent years.</p> 1151<p>Tanger Med, Africa’s busiest port by cargo volume, handled a record 161 million tonnes in 2025, up 13.3%, while container traffic reached 11.106 million TEUs, an 8.4% increase. Container volumes have more than doubled since 2019, with the latest capacity expansion at APM Terminals MedPort Tangier providing a significant part of the additional handling capability.</p> 1152<p>The APM-operated terminal, known as TC4 at Tanger Med 2, completed an expansion in late 2024 that added 2 million TEUs of annual capacity, taking its nominal capacity to approximately 5.2 million TEUs with a 2 km quay.</p> 1153<h2><span style="color: #666699;"><strong>Connectivity remains the bigger story</strong></span></h2> 1154<p>The growth is occurring while shipping networks around the western Mediterranean and the Strait of Gibraltar are being adjusted in response to changing Red Sea and Suez conditions.</p> 1155<p>One example is Ocean Network Express (ONE), which introduced its Mediterranean Africa Express (MAX) service in July. The weekly service links Algeciras, Tanger Med, Dakar, Tema, Lekki and Abidjan, before returning to Algeciras.</p> 1156<p>The service gives Tanger Med another direct connection into West African markets while also illustrating the port’s role as a strategic interchange between European, Mediterranean and African services.</p> 1157<p>This is particularly significant because the Suez Canal is now experiencing a gradual recovery in container traffic after the major diversions around the Cape of Good Hope that followed the Red Sea attacks. Suez Canal Authority figures for August showed vessel transits 27% higher year on year, although shipping lines remain cautious about restoring all services through the Red Sea.</p> 1158<p>For Tanger Med, however, a gradual return of Asia-Europe shipping through Suez does not necessarily mean a loss of the traffic and connectivity built up during the disruption.</p> 1159<p>The port’s position at the entrance to the Mediterranean, combined with its large container terminals, transshipment role and connections with both European and African markets, means that changes in shipping patterns can create opportunities in either direction.</p> 1160<p>The port’s 2025 figures demonstrate the scale already achieved: 11.1 million TEUs, 535,203 trucks and more than 526,000 vehicles were handled, alongside the 161 Mt overall cargo total.</p> 1161<p>The first-half 2026 result suggests that Tanger Med is continuing to build on that platform even as the shipping industry begins another adjustment to the changing Suez and Red Sea environment.</p> 1162<h2><span style="color: #666699;"><strong>A useful African perspective</strong></span></h2> 1163<p>For Africa, the significance goes beyond Tanger Med’s own volumes.</p> 1164<p>The port is increasingly functioning as a bridge between the major East-West container routes and African regi
1164onal trade, with services such as ONE’s MAX providing direct links between the Mediterranean gateway and major West African ports.</p> 1165<p>That makes Tanger Med an interesting counterpoint to the current expansion taking place at several African ports: its growth is not based solely on serving Morocco’s domestic market, but on its ability to combine transshipment, European connectivity, African feeder networks and industrial/logistics activity.</p> 1166<p>The 84 Mt first-half result therefore provides another indication that the major African ports competing for transshipment and gateway cargo are becoming increasingly integrated into the restructuring of global shipping networks.</p> 1167<p><span style="color: #993300;">Added 24 September 2026</span></p> 1168<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #3366ff;"> â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 1169<p>News continues below</p> 1170<div id="11894"></div> 1171<p><span style="color: #333399;"><span style="font-size: xx-large;"><b>TRIM capacity statement provides new view of South Africa’s rail network</b></span></span></p> 1172<figure id="attachment_90870" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-90870" style="width: 683px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TNet-Ogies-0040-683x450-Pic-TRIM.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-90870" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TNet-Ogies-0040-683x450-Pic-TRIM.jpg" alt="" width="683" height="450" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TNet-Ogies-0040-683x450-Pic-TRIM.jpg 683w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TNet-Ogies-0040-683x450-Pic-TRIM-300x198.jpg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TNet-Ogies-0040-683x450-Pic-TRIM-150x99.jpg 150w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TNet-Ogies-0040-683x450-Pic-TRIM-500x329.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-90870" class="wp-caption-text"><span style="font-size: xx-small; color: #003366;"> Transnet rail yard at Ogies.  Picture: Transnet.  Click image to enlarge</span></figcaption></figure> 1173<p><span style="color: #003366;">Terry Hutson</span><br /> 1174<strong><span style="color: #003366;"><span style="color: #ff0000;"><em>Africa</em></span> Ports & Ships</span></strong></p> 1175<p><span style="color: #800000;"><strong>Part 3 of our focus on the TRIM Statement issued this week:</strong></span></p> 1176<p><strong><span style="color: #003366;">The detailed capacity calculations accompanying Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager’s new Network Statement show where additional freight train capacity could become available â and where infrastru
1176cture constraints remain a limiting factor.</span></strong></p> 1177<p><span style="color: #003366;">The publication of the final Network Statement Version 4 by Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM) marks another step in South Africa’s transition to an open-access freight rail system.</span></p> 1178<p><span style="color: #003366;">Gazetted as Government Gazette No. 55426, the new Network Statement sets out the framework governing access to the national rail network, including capacity allocation, access conditions, commercial arrangements and the responsibilities of train operating companies (TOCs).</span></p> 1179<p><span style="color: #003366;">TRIM says the statement incorporates greater clarity for access seekers, expanded provisions for ad hoc applications and improved visibility of available capacity.</span></p> 1180<p><span style="color: #003366;">For freight users, however, one of the more interesting documents published alongside Version 4 is Annexure 33B â the Capacity Statement.</span></p> 1181<p><span style="color: #003366;">Rather than producing a single figure for national rail capacity, the statement examines the network at individual section level. Its calculations take account of theoretical and practical daily capacity, train paths lost through temporary speed restrictions and maintenance, paths recovered through infrastructure upgrades, unused paths recovered from TOCs and paths already allocated to operators.</span></p> 1182<p><span style="color: #003366;">The result is a more nuanced picture of the capacity that could actually be made available to freight operators.</span></p> 1183<p><span style="color: #003366;">For example, the Capacity Statement’s calculation for the JohannesburgâDurban route grouping shows 49 weekly spare train paths in FY2029/30, after the various capacity adjustments and existing allocations have been taken into account.</span></p> 1184<p><span style="color: #003366;">The figure should not, however, be interpreted as 49 additional trains that can immediately be placed on the DurbanâGauteng route.</span></p> 1185<p><span style="color: #003366;">It represents calculated spare capacity under the assumptions of TRIM’s capacity model for that financial year. The statement also incorporates capacity recovered through infrastructure improvements, meaning that future capacity depends in part on the restoration and improvement of the infrastructure on which the calculation is based.</span></p> 1186<p><span style="color: #003366;">This distinction is important as South Africa moves towards a multi-operator rail system. The Network Statement describes the operational corridors that constitute the national network, while the Capacity Statement drills down to individual sections to establish the capacity available within that network.</span></p> 1187<p><span style="color: #003366;">The capacity issue is becoming increasingly important as private operators enter the market.</span></p> 1188<p><span style="color: #003366;">TRIM has concluded access agreements with 11 private train operating companies, in addition to Transnet Freight Rail, with the allocations expected to add about 24 million tonnes of freight capacity across five strategic corridors. The operators are targeting commodities including coal, manganese, containers, fuel and general freight.</span></p> 1189<p><span style="color: #003366;">Transnet’s longer-term objective is to increase rail freight volumes to 250 million tonnes a year by 2030. TFR handled 167.9 million tonnes in 2025/26, following a 4.9% increase over the previous year.</span></p> 1190<p><span style="color: #003366;">The Capacity Statement therefore provides an important indication of the scale of the task facing the infrastructure manager. Increasing rail volumes will depend not simply on allocating more train paths, but on restoring infrastructure, removing temporary restrictions, maintaining the network and making the resulting capacity reliably available to operators.</span></p> 1191<p><span style="color: #003366;">TRIM says Version 4 will be updated annually for each financial year. The current statement covers the framework for 2026/27 and 2027/28, while the supporting capacity calculations look further ahead and provide an indication of how network capacity could develop as infrastru
1191cture interventions are implemented.</span></p> 1192<p><span style="color: #003366;">For rail users and prospective operators, the significance of Annexure 33B is therefore not a single headline capacity number. It provides a section-by-section view of where capacity exists, what is already allocated and where infrastructure remains the constraint.</span></p> 1193<p><span style="color: #003366;">The full TRIM Network Statement and its annexures are available <a style="color: #003366;" href="https://www.transnet.net/TRIM-Networkstatement"> <b>here</b></a>,</span><br /> 1194<span style="color: #003366;">allowing users to examine the detailed capacity calculations and the operational framework behind the figures.</span></p> 1195<p><span style="color: #993300;">Added 23 September 2026</span></p> 1196<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #3366ff;"> â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 1197<p>News continues below</p> 1198<div id="11895"></div> 1199<p><span style="color: #333399;"><span style="font-size: xx-large;"><b>SA logistics recovery loses momentum as Durban congestion persists</b></span></span></p> 1200<figure id="attachment_90920" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-90920" style="width: 1500px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TNPA-Head-office-TNPA-Pic-1500.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-90920" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TNPA-Head-office-TNPA-Pic-1500.jpg" alt="" width="1500" height="1124" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TNPA-Head-office-TNPA-Pic-1500.jpg 1500w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TNPA-Head-office-TNPA-Pic-1500-300x225.jpg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TNPA-Head-office-TNPA-Pic-1500-1024x767.jpg 1024w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TNPA-Head-office-TNPA-Pic-1500-768x575.jpg 768w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TNPA-Head-office-TNPA-Pic-1500-100x75.jpg 100w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TNPA-Head-office-TNPA-Pic-1500-150x112.jpg 150w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TNPA-Head-office-TNPA-Pic-1500-500x375.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-90920" class="wp-caption-text"><span style="font-size: xx-small; color: #003366;"> Aerial view of the port of Ngqura, with the magnificent eMendi Building, home to the head office of Transnet National Ports Authority. Picture: Transnet.   Click image to enlarge</span></figcaption></figure> 1201<p><strong><span style="color: #003366;"><span style="color: #ff0000;"><em>Africa</em></span> Ports & Ships</span></strong></p> 1202<p><strong><span style="color: #003366;">South Africa’s logistics recovery came under renewed pressure during the latest week, with container throughput across the country’s commercial ports falling 21% week on week to 72,837 TEUs.</span></strong></p> 1203<p><span style="color: #003366;">The latest <strong>SAAFF/BUSA Cargo Movement Update</strong>, covering 14â20 September, records an average of 10,405 TEUs handled daily, down from 13,096 TEUs in the preceding week. The report says the decline was driven largely by renewed weakness at Durban Gateway Terminal (DGT), although poor weather also affected operations.</span></p> 1204<h2><strong><span style="color: #003366;">Durban recovery remains fragile</span></strong></h2> 1205<p><span style="color: #003366;">DGT handled 20,110 TEUs during the week, a 39% decline from the previous week. The terminal attributed the deterioration partly to two days of extreme weather and the resulting knock-on effects.</span></p> 1206<p><span style="color: #003366;">Vessel delays remain severe, with average anchorage time at approximately 214 hours â almost nine days â and 10 vessels at anchorage in the latest position.</span></p> 1207<p><span style="color: #003366;">The situation on the landside is considerably better than during the late-August crisis. Stack occupancy has fallen to 54.5%, while road imports on hand have declined to 1,960 containers.</span></p> 1208<p><span style="color: #003366;">However, evacuation remains inconsistent, with 2,225 gate moves and only 287 rail moves recorded in the latest 24-hour period.</span></p> 1209<p><span style="color: #003366;">The problems are also beginning to spread through the wider Durban system. The report records increasing congestion at Pier 1 and at Ngqura, while the total Durban vessel queue has risen to 33, including 19 container vessels at anchorage.</span></p> 1210<p><span style="color: #003366;">The decline at DGT was accompanied by a 42% fall at Pier 1, which handled 8,030 TEUs. By contrast, Cape Town increased 4% to 15,194 TEUs and Port Elizabeth
1210increased 57% to 6,170 TEUs. Ngqura slipped just 1% to 18,264 TEUs.</span></p> 1211<p><span style="color: #003366;">SAAFF/BUSA is nevertheless projecting an improvement for the coming week, with total container throughput forecast to rise 15% to an average of 11,939 TEUs a day. The projection assumes a substantial recovery at DGT to almost 5,000 TEUs a day.</span></p> 1212<h2><strong><span style="color: #003366;">Rail shows improvement, but border pressures increase</span></strong></h2> 1213<p><span style="color: #003366;">Rail cargo moving out of Durban reached 1,780 containers, a 65% increase week on week. That is encouraging, although the report’s wider assessment remains that rail evacuation at DGT is inconsistent and below earlier operating levels.</span></p> 1214<p><span style="color: #003366;">Road freight, meanwhile, moved in the opposite direction. Average crossing times increased at both South African and wider SADC borders.</span></p> 1215<p><span style="color: #003366;">South African border crossings averaged approximately 8.7 hours, up 16%, while the SADC average excluding South African-controlled borders rose 25% to about 7.9 hours. Three border posts took a day or more to cross, with Kasumbalesa particularly badly affected, with crossings from the Zambian side taking about four days.</span></p> 1216<p><span style="color: #003366;">Other regional developments include resumed tolling at Zambia’s Kazungula weighbridge, vehicle-documentation enforcement problems in Mozambique, continued pre-clearance difficulties at Chirundu and Nakonde, and progress on funding for the Chirundu border-post upgrade. The proposed BotswanaâZambia rail link is also advancing.</span></p> 1217<h2><strong><span style="color: #003366;">International shipping remains under pressure</span></strong></h2> 1218<p><span style="color: #003366;">The international shipping picture remains mixed.</span></p> 1219<p><span style="color: #003366;">Global port congestion continues to absorb more than 11% of world containership capacity, while the global containership orderbook has climbed to approximately 1,925 vessels representing 15.6 million TEUs â more than 45% of the existing fleet. Vessel availability in the charter market consequently remains tight.</span></p> 1220<p><span style="color: #003366;">At the same time, the diversion of container shipping around the Cape of Good Hope continues to decline as some services gradually return to the Suez route. SAAFF/BUSA reports that Cape diversions have fallen to a 30-month low, although renewed security concerns around Yemen and the Bab el-Mandeb remain a threat to the recovery.</span></p> 1221<p><span style="color: #003366;">Freight rates remain elevated, with the Drewry World Container Index at about US$4,500 per 40-foot container, while the HARPEX container charter index has reached approximately 2,450 points.</span></p> 1222<h2><strong><span style="color: #003366;">A recovery, but not yet a stable one</span></strong></h2> 1223<p><span style="color: #003366;">The 300th edition of the SAAFF/BUSA report makes an important broader point: the current DGT disruption demonstrates how quickly problems at a strategically important logistics node can propagate through ports, rail, road transport, shipping schedules and cargo owners.</span></p> 1224<p><span style="color: #003366;">That is perhaps the most significant message from this week’s figures.</span></p> 1225<p><span style="color: #003366;">The underlying South African logistics recovery has not disappeared. Other terminals continue to handle substantial volumes, rail movements out of Durban have improved and some international shipping is gradually returning to established routes.</span></p> 1226<p><span style="color: #003366;">But the latest numbers show that the recovery remains uneven and vulnerable to disruption. The immediate concern is no longer simply whether DGT can clear its backlog, but whether the wider port system has sufficient resilience to absorb the consequences while that recovery continues.</span></p> 1227<p><span style="color: #993300;">Added 23 September 2026</span></p> 1228<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #3366ff;"> â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 1229<p>News continues below</p> 1230<div id="11882"></div> 1231<p><span style="color: #993366;"><span style="font-size: xx-large;"><b>Egypt’s ports grow as Suez Canal traffic shows strong recovery</b></span></span></p> 1232<figure id="attachment_90917" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-90917" style="width: 1200px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/UNCTAD-image-2024-01-26_1200x675.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-90917" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/UNCTAD-image-2024-01-26_1200x675.jpg" alt="" width="1200" height="674" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/UNCTAD-image-2024-01-26_1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/UNCTAD-image-2024-01-26_1200x675-300x169.jpg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/UNCTAD-image-2024-01-26_1200x675-1024x575.jpg 1024w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/UNCTAD-image-2024-01-26_1200x675-768x431.jpg 768w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/UNCTAD-image-2024-01-26_1200x675-150x84.jpg 150w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/UNCTAD-image-2024-01-26_1200x675-500x281.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100v
1232w, 1200px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-90917" class="wp-caption-text"><span style="font-size: xx-small; color: #003366;"> 1,358 vessels transited the canal during August 2026, carrying a combined 68.3 million tonnes of net tonnage.  Picture: UNCTAD  Click image to enlarge</span></figcaption></figure> 1233<p><span style="color: #003366;"><strong><span style="color: #ff0000;"><em>Africa</em></span> Ports & Ships</strong></span></p> 1234<p><span style="color: #003366;"><strong>Egyptian ports handled 233 million tonnes of cargo and 11.1 million TEUs during 2025, while August 2026 figures indicate a substantial recovery in traffic through the Suez Canal.</strong></span></p> 1235<p>Egypt’s maritime sector recorded strong growth in 2025, with the country’s ports handling 233 million tonnes of cargo, an increase of 12% over the previous year, while container throughput rose by 25% to 11.1 million TEUs.</p> 1236<p>Transport Minister Kamel El-Wazir announced the figures during Egypt’s World Maritime Day 2026 celebrations in Alexandria on 20 September. He said the growth had been achieved despite continuing geopolitical tensions in the region, attributing part of the increase to investment in container and multipurpose terminals and partnerships with international shipping lines and terminal operators.</p> 1237<p>Egypt also improved its position in the Liner Shipping Connectivity Index, moving from 23rd globally in 2024 to 19th in 2025. According to El-Wazir, this placed Egypt first in Africa and second among Arab countries.</p> 1238<p>The government is simultaneously developing eight integrated international logistics corridors linking Red Sea and Mediterranean ports, the Suez Canal axis, dry ports and industrial, agricultural and mining production areas through railways and road networks.</p> 1239<p>The corridors are ArishâTaba; SokhnaâAlexandria; SafagaâQenaâAbu Tartour; CairoâAlexandria; TantaâMansouraâDamietta; GargoubâSalloum; CairoâAswanâAbu Simbel; and BerniceâAswanâEast OweinatâAl KufraâN’Djamena.</p> 1240<p>Egypt says the programme is intended to reduce transport times and costs while strengthening its role in transit trade and regional supply chains.</p> 1241<h2><span style="color: #993366;"><strong>Suez Canal traffic rebounds</strong></span></h2> 1242<p>At the same time, the Suez Canal is showing a marked improvement in traffic, although the figures remain part of a recovery from the severe disruption caused by the Red Sea security crisis.</p> 1243<p>Suez Canal Authority chairman Osama Rabie said 1,358 vessels transited the canal during August 2026, carrying a combined 68.3 million tonnes of net tonnage and generating US$567.1 million in revenue.</p> 1244<p>That compares with 1,070 vessels, 45.2 million tonnes and US$326 million in August 2025. Vessel numbers consequently increased by 27%, net tonnage by 51.1% and revenue by 56.7% year on year.</p> 1245<p>Rabie said the canal remained safe and operational, with navigation proceeding regularly and canal services being provided efficiently. He also highlighted the readiness of the canal’s pilots and other maritime services.</p> 1246<p>The August figures are particularly significant because the Suez Canal has been heavily affected since late 2023 by attacks on commercial shipping in the lower Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb, prompting many major shipping lines to divert vessels around the Cape of Good Hope.</p> 1247<p>Egypt has consequently suffered a substantial loss of canal revenue. Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty said in July that regional instability had cost the country approximately US$10.5 billion in Suez Canal revenues.</p> 1248<p>The latest figures do not mean that the Red Sea shipping situation has returned completely to normal, but they do indicate that traffic through the canal has increased substantially from the depressed levels experienced during the disruption.</p> 1249<p>For Egypt, the combination of growing port throughput, expanded logistics connectivity and recovering Suez Canal traffic is strategically important.</p> 1250<p>The country’s maritime development programme is intended to link its ports more closely with inland production areas while using its geographic position between Asia, Europe and Africa to increase both transit and regional cargo flows.</p> 1251<p><span style="color: #993300;">Added 23 September 2026</span></p> 1252<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #3366ff;"> â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 1253<p>News continues below</p> 1254<div id="11876"></div> 1255<p><span style="color: #0000ff;"><span style="font-size: xx-large;"><b>Maputo expansion opens new South African cargo opportunities</b></span></span></p> 1256<figure id="attachment_90914" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-90914" style="width: 1280px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/20170705_122047-1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-90914" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/20170705_122047-1.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/20170705_122047-1.jpg 1280w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/20170705_122047-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/20170705_122047-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/20170705_122047-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/20170705_122047-1-150x84.jpg 150w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/20170705_122047-1-500x281.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1280px) 100v
1256w, 1280px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-90914" class="wp-caption-text"><span style="font-size: xx-small; color: #003366;"> The bulker Martine alongside at Matola loading ore.  Picture: Grindrod.  Click image to enlarge</span></figcaption></figure> 1257<p><span style="color: #003366;"><strong><span style="color: #ff0000;"><em>Africa</em></span> Ports & Ships</strong></span></p> 1258<p><strong>Grindrod is expanding its Matola terminal and preparing for larger vessels at Maputo as South Africa’s opening of the freight rail network creates opportunities for additional cargo through Mozambique.</strong></p> 1259<p>Grindrod is positioning the Port of Maputo and its Matola terminal to handle increased volumes from South Africa as the country’s freight rail network opens to private train operators.</p> 1260<p>The company plans to increase annual capacity at its Matola dry-bulk terminal from 7.3 million tonnes to 12 million tonnes by the first quarter of 2027, following a US$40 million expansion of the facility.</p> 1261<p>The expansion is intended to increase the terminal’s ability to handle coal and magnetite, with the project including additional back-of-port storage and handling infrastructure. Grindrod has also said that a further expansion could eventually take Matola’s capacity to 15 million tonnes a year.</p> 1262<p>At the same time, the Port of Maputo is preparing for a capital dredging programme that will allow larger vessels, including fully laden Capesize bulk carriers, to use the port. Grindrod’s 2025 annual report says the dredging will enable vessels of up to about 170,000 tonnes to access the port.</p> 1263<p>The developments coincide with changes taking place on the South African rail network.</p> 1264<p>Grindrod has identified an initial opportunity to move approximately 400,000 tonnes a year from Belfast in Mpumalanga to Komatipoort, providing additional rail-fed cargo for the Matola terminal from 2027. The company is acquiring wagons for the operation, while its rail access agreement is expected to allow operations to begin in the first quarter of 2027.</p> 1265<p>The BelfastâKomatipoort movement is significant because it provides a direct example of how the introduction of open access on South Africa’s freight railway could create new cargo flows towards neighbouring ports rather than relying exclusively on the existing Transnet Freight Rail operating model.</p> 1266<p>Grindrod has previously indicated that the Matola expansion is being developed with the rail network in mind. Its 2025 annual report said the company was preparing for the rail open-access initiative following the allocation of rail capacity, with the objective of improving inbound rail capacity and addressing logistics constraints.</p> 1267<p>The Maputo development is also taking place against a background of strong growth through the port. Port of Maputo handled a record 32.0 million tonnes in 2025, while Matola Terminal handled a record 9.9 million tonnes, 22.1% more than in 2024.</p> 1268<p>The company’s strategy therefore combines terminal expansion, deeper water and increased rail access â three elements that could allow Maputo to handle additional regional bulk cargo as South Africa’s freight logistics system develops.</p> 1269<p>The initial 400,000-tonne BelfastâKomatipoort opportunity is relatively modest compared with the overall capacity of the Maputo
1269system, but it provides an early indication of how the introduction of private participation in South African freight rail could affect cross-border cargo routing and competition between southern African ports.</p> 1270<p><span style="color: #993300;">Added 23 September 2026</span></p> 1271<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #3366ff;"> â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 1272<p>News continues below</p> 1273<div id="11893"></div> 1274<p><span style="color: #808000;"><span style="font-size: xx-large;"><b>Chirundu border upgrade reaches financial close on key NorthâSouth Corridor</b></span></span></p> 1275<p><a style="font-weight: bold; font-size: 1rem;" href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11893-Chirundu-Border-Crossing.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-90911" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11893-Chirundu-Border-Crossing.jpg" alt="" width="1500" height="750" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11893-Chirundu-Border-Crossing.jpg 1500w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11893-Chirundu-Border-Crossing-300x150.jpg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11893-Chirundu-Border-Crossing-1024x512.jpg 1024w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11893-Chirundu-Border-Crossing-768x384.jpg 768w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11893-Chirundu-Border-Crossing-150x75.jpg 150w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/11893-Chirundu-Border-Crossing-500x250.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1500px) 100vw, 1500px" /></a><br /> 1276<span style="font-size: xx-small; color: #003366;"> Image AI-generated for AP&S</span></p> 1277<h3><b><i>US-backed financing clears way for modernisation of Zimbabwe-Zambia crossing</i></b></h3> 1278<p>Zimbabwe and the Chirundu Border Consortium (CBC) have reached financial close on the upgrading and modernisation of the Chirundu Border Post on the country’s border with Zambia, clearing the way for construction of the major logistics project.</p> 1279<p>The upgrade is being implemented under a 20-year public-private partnership concession, with the private consortium responsible for financing, developing and operating the upgraded facility.</p> 1280<p>Construction mobilisation is already under way, with engineering, procurement and construction contractors on site and a batching plant operational. Full-scale construction is expected to begin in October and take approximately 18 months.</p> 1281<p>The project is intended to replace ageing infrastructure at Chirundu and introduce modern operational and cargo-processing systems to reduce congestion and improve the movement of freight and passengers.</p> 1282<p>Chirundu is a key crossing on the NorthâSouth Corridor, linking the Zambian and Democratic Republic of Congo copperbelt via Zimbabwe with ports and markets further south. Freight moving through the crossing includes copper, cobalt, fuel, mining equipment, chemical reagents, fertiliser and agricultural products.</p> 1283<p>The crossing was inaugurated in 2009 as Africa’s first one-stop border post, with the facility designed to allow the border agencies of Zimbabwe and Zambia to undertake their procedures in a coordinated operation.</p> 1284<p>Despite that arrangement, increasing freight volumes and ageing infrastructure have resulted in congestion and lengthy delays for commercial traffic.</p> 1285<h2><span style="color: #808000;"><strong>Private-sector financing</strong></span></h2> 1286<p>The financial close brings together Zimbabwean government agencies and the private-sector consortium, with SAFAGA International as the project’s founding sponsor.</p> 1287<p>Strategic Partners Group (SPG) is a strategic investor, while Standard Bank of South Africa acted as lead debt arranger and senior lender. The latest financing information also identifies Stanbic Bank Zimbabwe as participating in the financing.</p> 1288<p>The US Exim Bank has disclosed an $80.25 million loan facility connected to the project. Public disclosures have not, however, established that this represents the final total project cost, so the previously reported $66.8 million government estimate should not be treated as the final investment value.</p> 1289<p>Under the PPP structure, the consortium will finance the development and subsequently operate the upgraded border facility, with the government not required to provide capital funding for the construction.</p> 1290<h2><span style="color: #808000;"><strong>A strategic freight gateway</strong></span></h2> 1291<p>The project has significance beyond Zimbabwe and Zambia because Chirundu is part of the principal road-freight route linking the Copperbelt and wider Central African markets with southern African ports.</p> 1292<p>Improving the crossing is therefore intended to reduce the time and cost associated with moving mineral exports and imported goods along the corridor.</p> 1293<p>The project follows Zimbabwe’s earlier redevelopment of the Beitbridge border post with South Africa, also delivered through a PPP and involving SAFAGA International. The Beitbridge project provided a model for Zimbabwe’s subsequent programme of modernising major border crossings through private-sector participation.</p> 1294<p>For the regional logistics industry, the significance of Chirundu lies in its position between the Zambia-DRC mining belt and the southern African port system. A more efficient border operation should reduce one of the physical bottlenecks along a corridor that carries substantial volumes of minerals, fuel, mining inputs and general cargo.</p> 1295<p>The modernisation is consequently being positioned as a trade-facilitation project as well as a border infrastru
1295cture upgrade, with the objective of increasing the efficiency of freight and passenger movements through one of the region’s important land gateways.</p> 1296<p><span style="color: #993300;">Added 23 September 2026</span></p> 1297<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #3366ff;"> â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 1298<p>News continues below</p> 1299<div id="11889"></div> 1300<p><span style="color: #333399;"><span style="font-size: xx-large;"><b>TRIM investment plan reveals scale of rail rebuilding required</b></span></span></p> 1301<figure id="attachment_90870" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-90870" style="width: 683px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TNet-Ogies-0040-683x450-Pic-TRIM.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-90870" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TNet-Ogies-0040-683x450-Pic-TRIM.jpg" alt="" width="683" height="450" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TNet-Ogies-0040-683x450-Pic-TRIM.jpg 683w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TNet-Ogies-0040-683x450-Pic-TRIM-300x198.jpg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TNet-Ogies-0040-683x450-Pic-TRIM-150x99.jpg 150w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/TNet-Ogies-0040-683x450-Pic-TRIM-500x329.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-90870" class="wp-caption-text"><span style="font-size: xx-small; color: #003366;"> Transnet rail yard at Ogies. Picture: Transnet. Click image to enlarge</span></figcaption></figure> 1302<p><span style="color: #003366;">Terry Hutson</span><br /> 1303<strong><span style="color: #003366;"><span style="color: #ff0000;"><em>Africa</em></span> Ports & Ships</span></strong></p> 1304<p><span style="color: #800000;"><strong>Part 2 of our focus on the TRIM Statement issued this week:</strong></span></p> 1305<p><span style="color: #003366;"><strong>South Africa’s new rail infrastructure manager has an approved five-year capital programme of R46.3 billion, while pursuing a further R26 billion from National Treasury to accelerate rehabilitation of the freight network and support the country’s move towards open access.</strong></span></p> 1306<p><span style="color: #003366;">The scale of investment required to restore South Africa’s freight rail network is set out in considerable detail in the Investment Plan accompanying Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager’s (TRIM) new Network Statement Version 4.</span></p> 1307<p><span style="color: #003366;">TRIM’s approved capital investment programme for the five years from 2026/27 to 2030/31 amounts to R46.343 billion.</span></p> 1308<p><span style="color: #003366;">The programme comprises R32.724 billion in capitalised operating expenditure, R11.914 billion in sustaining capital and R1.705 billion in expansionary capital.</span></p> 1309<p><span style="color: #003366;">The distinction is important. Much of the programme is directed towards maintaining, renewing and rehabilitating existing infrastructure rather than creating additional network capacity.</span></p> 1310<p><span style="color: #003366;">The Investment Plan separately identifies R31.938 billion in infrastructure COPEX over the five-year period.</span></p> 1311<h2><strong><span style="color: #003366;">North takes largest share</span></strong></h2> 1312<p><span style="color: #003366;">The largest allocation is to the North Corridor (the heavy-haul coal system linking the Mpumalanga and Waterberg coalfields with Richards Bay, together with the Gauteng freight ring), which receives R10.084 billion over the five years.</span></p> 1313<p><span style="color: #003366;">The Ore Corridor (SishenâSaldanha) receives R6.469 billion, while the North-East Corridor (the network linking the northern and eastern parts of South Africa with Richards Bay and the SADC region) receives R4.540 billion.</span></p> 1314<p><span style="color: #003366;">The Central Corridor (the PretoriaâVereeniging/Warrenton and Botswana-border network, including Lichtenburg and Krugers
1314dorp) is allocated R4.342 billion.</span></p> 1315<p><span style="color: #003366;">The Manganese-to-Port Elizabeth route receives R2.479 billion, while the Cape Corridor excluding the manganese route (serving the Cape Town, Mossel Bay, Port Elizabeth, Ngqura and East London hinterlands) receives R1.821 billion.</span></p> 1316<p><span style="color: #003366;">The Container Corridor (the principal GautengâDurban freight rail artery, with connections into the wider inland network) receives R2.107 billion.</span></p> 1317<p><span style="color: #003366;">The figures are described by TRIM as the corporate-plan view and are subject to change as additional funding initiatives are realised.</span></p> 1318<p><span style="color: #003366;">An important feature of the table is that some future expenditure is marked âPSPâ, indicating corridors where infrastructure investment is earmarked for private-sector participation rather than TRIM capital.</span></p> 1319<h2><strong><span style="color: #003366;">A further R26bn being sought</span></strong></h2> 1320<p><span style="color: #003366;">The approved R46.343 billion programme does not represent the end of TRIM’s funding requirement.</span></p> 1321<p><span style="color: #003366;">The Investment Plan says the corporate plan already includes R16.3 billion linked to Budget Facility for Infrastructure (BFI) grant-funded initiatives, of which R10 billion has been approved for the North and Ore corridors.</span></p> 1322<p><span style="color: #003366;">TRIM is now pursuing a further R26 billion in BFI funding from National Treasury.</span></p> 1323<p><span style="color: #003366;">Applications for the Cape Corridor (R8.7bn) and Central Corridor (R6bn) were submitted to Treasury on 5 July 2026.</span></p> 1324<p><span style="color: #003366;">Applications for approximately R5.4bn for the North-East Corridor and approximately R6bn for the Container Corridor are targeted for the 15 October 2026 BFI bid window.</span></p> 1325<p><span style="color: #003366;">TRIM says the additional funding is intended to accelerate network rehabilitation, reduce the infrastructure backlog and improve reliability, capacity and long-term sustainability.</span></p> 1326<p><span style="color: #003366;">Taken together, the figures illustrate that the financial challenge facing the rail reform programme is considerably larger than the R26 billion headline funding request alone.</span></p> 1327<p><span style="color: #003366;">The R26bn is additional funding being pursued alongside the approved R46.343bn five-year capital programme.</span></p> 1328<h2><strong><span style="color: #003366;">Expansion as well as rehabilitation</span></strong></h2> 1329<p><span style="color: #003366;">The Investment Plan also identifies a number of expansion projects intended to increase freight capacity.</span></p> 1330<p><span style="color: #003366;">On the coal network, the Coal Line 81 MTPA project includes new substations and power lines between Blackhill and Ermelo to accommodate additional train slots and increase capacity from 71 million tonnes a year to 81 Mtpa.</span></p> 1331<p><span style="color: #003366;">A further Waterberg project involving the Marakele and Diepdruit loops is intended to increase coal capacity between Lephalale and Thabazimbi from 2.6 Mtpa to 9.5 Mtpa.</span></p> 1332<p><span style="color: #003366;">At Sishen, a new rail link and yard expansion are planned to remove a bottleneck associated with manganese trains and provide three additional lines for manganese traffic moving towards Saldanha.</span></p> 1333<p><span style="color: #003366;">The Manganese 12 Mtpa Phase 2 project involves new loops, yards and supporting infrastructure between Hotazel and the Port of Ngqura to accommodate future manganese volumes of up to 12 Mtpa.</span></p> 1334<p><span style="color: #003366;">Another project involves a locomotive preparation facility at Bayvue Yard in the Port of Richards Bay, intended to improve locomotive turnaround times.</span></p> 1335<h2><strong><span style="color: #003366;">BotswanaâSouth Africa link</span></strong></h2> 1336<p><span style="color: #003366;">The Investment Plan also introduces a significant regional development: the proposed Botswana Rail Link and Eswatini Rail Link.</span></p> 1337<p><span style="color: #003366;">TRIM says the project would develop a new corridor linking mines in Botswana with South African ports via the Eswatini link for the transportation of bulk commodities and regional integration.</span></p> 1338<p><span style="color: #003366;">The Department of Transport has supported the project, with TRIM and Botswana Railways expected to undertake bankable feasibility studies from 2026/27.</span></p> 1339<p><span style="color: #003366;">TRIM’s document does not identify the South African port or ports at this stage. The existing Eswatini rail proposal, however, provides a direct connection towards Richards Bay, while Transnet’s existing heavy-haul network identifies Richards Bay as the principal outlet for South African coal exports.</span></p> 1340<p><span style="color: #003366;">The final destination and commodity flows should therefore emerge from the planned feasibility work rather than being regarded as settled at this stage.</span></p> 1341<h2><strong><span style="color: #003366;">Investment is central to open access</span></strong></h2> 1342<p><span style="color: #003366;">The Investment Plan provides an important context for Network Statement V4 and the introduction of private freight operators.</span></p> 1343<p><span style="color: #003366;">Opening the network to additional train operators creates the potential for greater rail freight capacity, but that capacity ultimately depends on the condition, reliability and availability of the underlying infrastru
1343cture.</span></p> 1344<p><span style="color: #003366;">TRIM’s five-year programme therefore combines maintenance and rehabilitation with selected capacity-expansion projects, while seeking additional Treasury support and identifying areas where private capital can supplement public investment.</span></p> 1345<p><span style="color: #003366;">For South Africa’s freight rail reform, the challenge is consequently not simply to create an open-access system, but to ensure that there is sufficient functioning infrastructure for additional operators to use.</span></p> 1346<p><span style="color: #003366;">The R46.343 billion programme, together with the additional R26 billion being sought from Treasury and the planned private-sector investment, provides an indication of the scale of the task.</span></p> 1347<p><span style="color: #003366;">The complete TRIM Statement is available</span> <a href="https://www.transnet.net/TRIM-Networkstatement"> <b>here</b></a></p> 1348<p><span style="color: #993300;">Added 22 September 2026</span></p> 1349<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #3366ff;"> â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 1350<p>News continues below</p> 1351<div id="11885"></div> 1352<p><span style="color: #333399;"><span style="font-size: xx-large;"><b>Conakry Terminal targets more than 1m TEUs as Guinea’s container traffic surges</b></span></span></p> 1353<figure id="attachment_90890" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-90890" style="width: 1024px" class="wp-caption alignleft"><a href="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Port_Autonome_Conakry_Terminal_01.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-90890" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Port_Autonome_Conakry_Terminal_01.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="683" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Port_Autonome_Conakry_Terminal_01.jpg 1024w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Port_Autonome_Conakry_Terminal_01-300x200.jpg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Port_Autonome_Conakry_Terminal_01-768x512.jpg 768w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Port_Autonome_Conakry_Terminal_01-420x280.jpg 420w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Port_Autonome_Conakry_Terminal_01-150x100.jpg 150w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Port_Autonome_Conakry_Terminal_01-500x333.jpg 500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a><figcaption id="caption-attachment-90890" class="wp-caption-text"><span style="color: #003366;">Port scene at Conakry.  Picture: Port Autonome Conakry.   Click image to enlarge</span></figcaption></figure> 1354<p><span style="color: #003366;"><strong><span style="color: #ff0000;"><em>Africa</em></span> Ports & Ships </strong>                                        <span style="color: #000080;"><strong>                                                       </strong></span></span><span style="color: #000080;"><strong>AGL-operated terminal is expanding quay and yard capacity after traffic reached 416,892 TEUs in 2025</strong></span></p> 1355<p>The container terminal at Guinea’s Port of Conakry is preparing for another major expansion after traffic growth substantially exceeded earlier forecasts, with the operator targeting annual throughput of more than 1 million TEUs by 2029-2030.</p> 1356<p>Conakry Terminal, operated by <strong>Africa Global Logistics (AGL)</strong>, part of the MSC Group, handled 416,892 TEUs in 2025, compared with about 300,000 containers in 2023. The terminal expects throughput to exceed 500,000 containers during 2026.</p> 1357<p>The latest expansion plans come as the terminal prepares for a further substantial increase in traffic under new managing director Ãdouard Léno, who was appointed earlier this month.</p> 1358<p>Léno takes over at a time when the terminal’
1358s existing infrastructure is already operating at levels that had originally been projected several years into the future.</p> 1359<p>According to Conakry Terminal officials, the number of regular shipping services calling at the terminal has increased from three in 2023 to six in 2026, adding to the pressure on quay, yard and landside capacity.</p> 1360<h2><span style="color: #333399;"><strong>Traffic outpacing forecasts</strong></span></h2> 1361<p>The rapid increase in volumes has changed the timetable for infrastructure development.</p> 1362<p>In February this year, Guinea’s Transport Ministry indicated that the quay had already reached the level of capacity that had originally been expected only by 2030. Terminal officials subsequently said that the traffic handled in 2025 had already reached volumes they had previously forecast for 2030.</p> 1363<p>The increase has also exposed pressure elsewhere in the logistics chain.</p> 1364<p>Congestion during 2025 affected the movement of containers through and out of the port, prompting measures to improve cargo evacuation. AGL and terminal officials have stressed that the capacity challenge extends beyond the terminal itself to the wider logistics system around Conakry, including storage and landside evacuation.</p> 1365<h2><span style="color: #333399;"><strong>â¬250m already invested</strong></span></h2> 1366<p>AGL and Conakry Terminal say approximately â¬250 million has already been invested in the terminal and associated logistics infrastructure.</p> 1367<p>The investment has included port infrastructure, handling equipment, additional storage areas and the development of the Kagbélén dry port, which entered service in 2024 and provides additional space outside the main port for handling container flows.</p> 1368<p>The terminal is now embarking on a further expansion involving a new quay and more than 20 hectares of additional container yard space.</p> 1369<p>The new infrastructure is scheduled to enter service progressively between late 2026 and early 2028, with the stated objective of doubling the terminal’s operational area.</p> 1370<p>Earlier investment has included the development of additional quay infrastructure and the acquisition of new handling equipment. Conakry Terminal also says it has been accelerating digitalisation and operational improvements as traffic has increased.</p> 1371<p>The expansion of the container terminal is taking place alongside a separate programme of investment by Turkish group Albayrak, which holds a 25-year concession covering the Port of Conakry’s conventional and general-cargo operations.</p> 1372<p>The concession, awarded in 2018, includes port modernisation and infrastructure development. Guinea’s Transport Ministry reported in May that the first of two new quays being built by Albayrak had been completed and was ready to enter service, while construction of the second was under way. The container terminal, however, remains separately operated by AGL’s Conakry Terminal.</p> 1373<h2><span style="color: #333399;"><strong>A rapidly expanding gateway</strong></span></h2> 1374<p>The growth at Conakry reflects the expansion of Guinea’s international trade and the increasing role of the Port of Conakry as the country’s principal container gateway.</p> 1375<p>The terminal’s 2025 throughput of 416,892 TEUs represented an increase of roughly 39% on the approximately 300,000 containers handled in 2023.</p> 1376<p>Reaching more than 500,000 TEUs in 2026 and subsequently exceeding one million annually by 2029-2030 would therefore represent another major increase in traffic over a relatively short period.</p> 1377<p>The challenge for the terminal is consequently not simply to increase quay and yard capacity, but to ensure that the additional containers can be processed and evacuated efficiently through the wider logistics system.</p> 1378<p>The planned expansion is intended to provide additional operating capacity before traffic reaches the next stage of growth.</p> 1379<p>
1379For AGL, the objective is to ensure that infrastructure development keeps pace with a market in which actual container volumes have repeatedly arrived several years ahead of earlier forecasts.</p> 1380<p><span style="color: #993300;">Added 22 September 2026</span></p> 1381<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #3366ff;"> â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 1382<div class="canvas" role="main"> 1383<div class="layout"> 1384<div class="theconversation-article-body" style="text-align: center;"> 1385<div class="infographic" aria-label="Infographic mock"> 1386<div class="theconversation-article-body"> 1387<div class="theconversation-article-body" style="text-align: center;"> 1388<div class="infographic" aria-label="Infographic mock"> 1389<div class="theconversation-article-body"> 1390<div class="theconversation-article-body" style="text-align: center;"> 1391<div class="layout"> 1392<div id="b_wpt_bg" class="b_wpt_bg" data-priority=""> 1393<div id="sydwrap_wrapper" class="sydwrap_wrapper"> 1394<div id="b_syd_supermax" class="" data-priority="2"> 1395<div id="b_syd_sm_chat" class="sydwrap_sm_chat" data-sydsm="true" data-sydwrap="true" data-sydansname="WholePageTemplateCodexContainerAnswer"> 1396<div class="b_wpt_chat"> 1397<div class="b_wpt_chat_inner"> 1398<div class="qna-mf" data-priority=""> 1399<div class="b_sideBleed b_topBleed b_bottomBleed"> 1400<div class="mf-item-cntr "> 1401<div class="b_antiSideBleed b_antiTopBleed"> 1402<div class="mf-item"> 1403<div class="ans-itm-cntr qna-df qna-aggr-genItems "> 1404<div class="author"> 1405<section class="elementor-section elementor-inner-section elementor-element elementor-element-1b6eb8b elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default" data-id="1b6eb8b" data-element_type="section"> 1406<div class="elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default"> 1407<div class="elementor-column elementor-col-33 elementor-inner-column elementor-element elementor-element-511dc50" data-id="511dc50" data-element_type="column"> 1408<div class="elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated"> 1409<div class="elementor-element elementor-element-107017ba elementor-widget elementor-widget-theme-post-content" data-id="107017ba" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="theme-post-content.default"> 1410<div class="elementor-widget-container" style="text-align: left;"> 1411<div class="elementor-element elementor-element-107017ba elementor-widget elementor-widget-theme-post-content" data-id="107017ba" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="theme-post-content.default"> 1412<div class="elementor-widget-container" style="text-align: left;"> 1413<div class="elementor-widget-container" style="text-align: left;"> 1414<div class="elementor-widget-container" style="text-align: left;"> 1415<div class="elementor-widget-container" style="text-align: left;"> 1416<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #3366ff;">â¦â¦â¦</span><span style="color: #3366ff; font-size: 1rem;">â¦â¦â¦</span><span style="color: #ff0000;">â¦â¦â¦</span><span style="color: #3366ff; font-size: 1rem;">â¦â¦â¦</span><span style="color: #3366ff;">â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 1417</div> 1418</div> 1419</div> 1420<div class="elementor-column elementor-col-33 elementor-inner-column elementor-element elementor-element-511dc50" data-id="511dc50" data-element_type="column"> 1421<div class="elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated"> 1422<div class="elementor-element elementor-element-107017ba elementor-widget elementor-widget-theme-post-content" data-id="107017ba" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="theme-post-content.default"> 1423<div class="elementor-widget-container" style="text-align: left;"> 1424<h1 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #ff0000;"><b>GENERAL NEWS</b></span></h1> 1425<div id="11194"> 1426<div class="elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default"> 1427<div class="elementor-column elementor-col-33 elementor-inner-column elementor-element elementor-element-511dc50" data-id="511dc50" data-element_type="column"> 1428<div class="elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default"> 1429<div class="elementor-column elementor-col-33 elementor-inner-column elementor-element elementor-element-511dc50" data-id="511dc50" data-element_type="column"> 1430<div class="elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated"> 1431<div class="elementor-element elementor-element-107017ba elementor-widget elementor-widget-theme-post-content" data-id="107017ba" data-element_type="widget" data-widget_type="theme-post-content.default"> 1432<div class="elementor-widget-container" style="text-align: left;"> 1433<p style="text-align: center;">Updated 24 Hours Per Day</p> 1434<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff;">in partnership with – APO</span></h3> 1435<h3 style="text-align: left;">
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1464w, 640px" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/SA-Navy-640.jpg 640w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/SA-Navy-640-600x400.jpg 600w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/SA-Navy-640-300x200.jpg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/SA-Navy-640-420x280.jpg 420w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/SA-Navy-640-272x182.jpg 272w" alt="" width="640" height="427" /></p> 1465<p>Similarly you can read our regular <span style="color: #0000ff;"><b>Naval News</b></span> reports and stories here in the general news section.</p> 1466<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ff;">â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦â¦</span></h3> 1467<h3 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #ff0000;">â â â </span></h3> 1468<h1 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #ff0000;"><strong>ADVERTISING</strong></span></h1> 1469<p><a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#70041502020930111602191311001f0204035e131f5e0a11"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-18235 aligncenter" src="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/banner-1-advertising-space.jpg" sizes="auto, (max-width: 470px) 100vw, 470px" srcset="https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/banner-1-advertising-space.jpg 470w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/banner-1-advertising-space-300x57.jpg 300w, https://africaports.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/banner-1-advertising-space-150x29.jpg 150w" alt="" width="470" height="90" /></a></p> 1470<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>For a Rate Card please contact us at <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#8ae3e4ece5caebecf8e3e9ebfae5f8fef9a4e9e5a4f0eb"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="d3babdb5bc93b2b5a1bab0b2a3bca1a7a0fdb0bcfda9b2">[email protected]</span></a></strong></p> 1471<p>Donât forget to send us your news and press releases for inclusion in the News Bulletins. Shipping related pictures submitted by readers are always welcome. Email to <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#5d29382f2f241d3c3b2f343e3c2d322f292e733e3273273c"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="c8bcadbabab188a9aebaa1aba9b8a7babcbbe6aba7e6b2a9">[email protected]</span></a></p> 1472</div> 1473<article id="post-5" class="post-5 page type-page status-publish hentry"> 1474<div class="entry-content clearfix"> 1475<section id="wpsp-2287" class=" wp-show-posts"> 1476<article class=" wp-show-posts-single wpsp-clearfix post-66452 post type-post status-publish format-standard hentry category-news category-uncategorized tag-al-kuwait tag-alp tag-boskalis tag-cape-town-port tag-cfm tag-cma-terminals tag-cyclone-eleanor tag-dct-pier1 tag-dct-pier2 tag-djibouti tag-egypt tag-eunavfor-aspides tag-european-union tag-galaxy-leader tag-german-navy tag-hang-jun-4017 tag-hessen tag-houthis tag-ibo-island tag-imo tag-islamic-state tag-kalmar tag-kumba tag-la-reunion tag-livestock-carrier tag-matemo tag-mauritius tag-moroccan-ports tag-mpumi-zikalala tag-mv-mpungu tag-pemba tag-pollux tag-port-maputo tag-quirimba tag-quissanga tag-red-sea tag-reunion tag-rubymar tag-sa-port-stats-for-january-2024 tag-seco tag-skandi-seven tag-ss-mendi tag-svitzer-santo-nino tag-tanzania tag-tpt tag-trade-news tag-weathernews-inc tag-zanzibar"> 1477<div class="wp-show-posts-inner"> 1478<div class="wp-show-posts-entry-content" style="text-align: left;"> 1479<div class="entry-content clearfix"></div> 1480</div> 1481<div class="wp-show-posts-entry-meta wp-show-posts-entry-meta-below-post post-meta-stack"> 1482<div class="wp-show-posts-entry-content"> 1483<div class="entry-content clearfix"> 1484<h2 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #ff0000;"><strong>South African Ports: <span style="color: #0000ff;">Total cargo handled by tonnes during August 2026, including containers by weight</span></strong></span></h2> 1485<ul> 1486<li>see full report for the latest month and year in the news section</li> 1487</ul> 1488<table border="1" width="400" cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1"> 1489<tbody> 1490<tr> 1491<td><strong>PORT</strong></td> 1492<td><strong>August 2026 – million tonnes</strong></td> 1493</tr> 1494<tr> 1495<td>Richards Bay</td> 1496<td>6.660</td> 1497</tr> 1498<tr> 1499<td>Durban</td> 1500<td>6.206</td> 1501</tr> 1502<tr> 1503<td>Saldanha Bay</td> 1504<td>5.750</td> 1505</tr> 1506<tr> 1507<td>Cape Town</td> 1508<td>1.343</td> 1509</tr> 1510<tr> 1511<td>Port Elizabeth</td> 1512<td>1.218</td> 1513</tr> 1514<tr> 1515<td>Ngqura</td> 1516<td>1.839</td> 1517</tr> 1518<tr> 1519<td>Mossel Bay</td> 1520<td>0.009</td> 1521</tr> 1522<tr> 1523<td>East London</td> 1524<td>0.086</td> 1525</tr> 1526<tr> 1527<td></td> 1528<td></td> 1529</tr> 1530<tr> 1531<td><strong>Total all ports during August 2026</strong></td> 1532<td><strong>23.112 </strong>million tonnes</td> 1533</tr> 1534</tbody> 1535</table> 1536<h3></h3> 1537</div> 1538<h3>=================</h3> 1539</div> 1540</div> 1541</div> 1542</article> 1543</section> 1544</div> 1545</article> 1546</div> 1547</div> 1548</div> 1549</div> 1550</div> 1551</div> 1552</div> 1553</div> 1554</div> 1555</div> 1556</div> 1557</div> 1558</div> 1559</div> 1560</div> 1561</div> 1562</div> 1563</div> 1564</div> 1565</section> 1566</div> 1567</div> 1568</div> 1569</div> 1570</div> 1571</div> 1572</div> 1573</div> 1574</div> 1575</div> 1576</div> 1577</div> 1578</div> 1579</div> 1580</div> 1581</div> 1582</div> 1583</div> 1584</div> 1585</div> 1586</div> 1587</div> 1588</div> 1589</div> 1590</div> 1591 1592 1593 </div><!-- .entry-content --> 1594 1595 <footer class="entry-footer"> 1596 1597 1598 <div class="entry-tags clearfix"> 1599 <span class="meta-tags"> 1600 <a href="https://africaports.co.za/tag/batavia/" rel="tag">Batavia</a><a href="https://africaports.co.za/tag/beyind-the-orizon-the-infrastru
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1837<script type="module"> 1838/*! This file is auto-generated */ 1839var e="script#wp-emoji-settings",t=document.querySelector(e);if(!(t instanceof HTMLScriptElement))throw new Error("Element missing: "+e);const r=JSON.parse(t.text),s=(window._wpemojiSettings=r,"wpEmojiSettingsSupports"),o=["flag","emoji"];function i(e){try{var t={supportTests:e,timestamp:(new Date).valueOf()};sessionStorage.setItem(s,JSON.stringify(t))}catch(e){}}function c(e,t,n){e.clearRect(0,0,e.canvas.width,e.canvas.height),e.fillText(t,0,0);t=new Uint32Array(e.getImageData(0,0,e.canvas.width,e.canvas.height).data);e.clearRect(0,0,e.canvas.width,e.canvas.height),e.fillText(n,0,0);const r=new Uint32Array(e.getImageData(0,0,e.canvas.width,e.canvas.height).data);return t.every((e,t)=>e===r[t])}function p(e,t){e.clearRect(0,0,e.canvas.width,e.canvas.height),e.fillText(t,0,0);var n=e.getImageData(16,16,1,1);for(let e=0;e<n.data.length;e++)if(0!==n.data[e])return!1;return!0}function u(e,t,n,r){switch(t){case"flag":return n(e,"\ud83c\udff3\ufe0f\u200d\u26a7\ufe0f","\ud83c\udff3\ufe0f\u200b\u26a7\ufe0f")?!1:!n(e,"\ud83c\udde8\ud83c\uddf6","\ud83c\udde8\u200b\ud83c\uddf6")&&!n(e,"\ud83c\udff4\udb40\udc67\udb40\udc62\udb40\udc65\udb40\udc6e\udb40\udc67\udb40\udc7f","\ud83c\udff4\u200b\udb40\udc67\u200b\udb40\udc62\u200b\udb40\udc65\u200b\udb40\udc6e\u200b\udb40\udc67\u200b\udb40\udc7f");case"emoji":return!r(e,"\ud83e\u1fac8")}return!1}function f(e,t,n,r){let a;const s=(a="undefined"!=typeof WorkerGlobalScope&&self instanceof WorkerGlobalScope?new OffscreenCanvas(300,150):document.createElement("canvas")).getContext("2d",{willReadFrequently:!0}),o=(s.textBaseline="top",s.font="600 32px Arial",{});return e.forEach(e=>{o[e]=t(s,e,n,r)}),o}function a(e){var t=document.createElement("script");t.src=e,t.defer=!0,document.head.appendChild(t)}r.supports={everything:!0,everythingExceptFlag:!0},new Promise(t=>{let n=function(){try{var e=JSON.parse(sessionStorage.getItem(s));if("object"==typeof e&&"number"==typeof e.timestamp&&(new Date).valueOf()<e.timestamp+604800&&"object"==typeof e.supportTests)return e.supportTests}catch(e){}return null}();if(!n){if("undefined"!=typeof Worker&&"undefined"!=typeof OffscreenCanvas&&"undefined"!=typeof URL&&URL.createObjectURL&&"undefined"!=typeof Blob)try{var e="postMessage("+f.toString()+"("+[JSON.stringify(o),u.toString(),c.toString(),p.toString()].join(",")+"));",r=new Blob([e],{type:"text/javascript"});const a=new Worker(URL.createObjectURL(r),{name:"wpTestEmojiSupports"});return void(a.onmessage=e=>{i(n=e.data),a.terminate(),t(n)})}catch(e){}i(n=f(o,u,c,p))}t(n)}).then(e=>{for(const n in e)r.supports[n]=e[n],r.supports.everything=r.supports.everything&&r.supports[n],"flag"!==n&&(r.supports.everythingExceptFlag=r.supports.everythingExceptFlag&&r.supports[n]);var t;r.supports.everythingExceptFlag=r.supports.everythingExceptFlag&&!r.supports.flag,r.supports.everything||((t=r.source||{}).concatemoji?a(t.concatemoji):t.wpemoji&&t.twemoji&&(a(t.twemoji),a(t.wpemoji)))}); 1840//# sourceURL=https://africaports.co.za/wp-includes/js/wp-emoji-loader.min.js 1841</script>
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1843<script type="module" src="https://static.cloudflareinsights.com/beacon.min.js/v31edd6df95cf4e85bb4c19e7a9bdbcba1788362987495" integrity="sha512-iIg7k2xntmwu6/uSb5tpc/hySgZc4eoL31yB29W6tJFo2akwjPWcEqnCEdJvGexCL0KEQwVYv5BlowfhVz26hg==" data-cf-beacon='{"version":"2024.11.0","token":"78dfe70c0c374d5e8501b38de3184dbc","r":1,"spa":2}' crossorigin="anonymous"></script>
1843 1844</body> 1845</html>
Line numbers count LF bytes from the start of the resource, as the search results do. Vendor segments are library code the classifier recognised; they are stored but not indexed. Bytes are shown as Latin1 characters, one per byte.