The Multi-Modal Inland Port Association (MIPA) welcomes the release of Transnet’s Network Statement, a landmark development that opens up South Africa’s rail network to third party operators, at an affordable cost structure. Approved in December 2024 by the Honourable Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy, the Network Statement provides a clear framework for private sector participation in the rail sector, a move that is expected to transform freight logistics in the
Author: Constance Makungu
China Funds $254.76 Million for Nigeria’s Kaduna-Kano Railway
The China Development Bank has approved a $254.76 million loan to Nigeria for the construction of the Kaduna-Kano railway, part of the country’s larger railway modernization efforts under the Lagos-Kano initiative. This development is a significant milestone in China’s involvement in Nigeria’s infrastructure development and its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The Kaduna-Kano railway project was launched in July 2021 by then-President Muhammadu Buhari in Kano State. It is envisioned
TRIM Prepares for Private Rail Operator Integration Amid Challenges
South Africa’s Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM) is set to allocate its first route slots to private train operating companies (TOCs) following the release of the long-awaited Network Statement in December. This move marks a significant step toward opening the country’s rail network to third-party operators. The Network Statement, which will be updated annually on April 1, introduces a differentiated access tariff regime with rates based on commodity types and
MSC Establishes Walvis Bay as Southern Africa’s Transshipment Hub
Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) has announced significant updates to its North West Continent (NWC) to South Africa service, alongside the introduction of two new shuttle services. These developments position the Port of Walvis Bay in Namibia as a critical transshipment hub for the region. In a recent statement, MSC confirmed its commitment to enhancing its Southern African network to facilitate seamless trade between Africa, Europe, and other global markets. Key
Reopening of Bunkering in Algoa Bay Set to Transform South Africa’s Maritime Industry
The reopening of bunkering in Algoa Bay represents more than just a return to business; it’s an opportunity to reshape South Africa’s position within the global maritime industry. By drawing on past lessons and embracing new opportunities, Algoa Bay has the potential to become a leading model for sustainable and efficient offshore bunkering. This vision, according to Durand Naidoo, CEO of Linsen Nambi, can be realized through close collaboration among
AfDB Approves $165 Million Loan to Boost Madagascar’s Trade Corridors
The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) has approved a $165 million loan to Madagascar to develop critical trade corridors and strengthen regional connectivity. The funding, sanctioned on December 11 in Abidjan, will finance the third phase of an infrastructure project aimed at enhancing trade routes across the country. Adam Amoumoun, the AfDB’s country manager for Madagascar, stated that the financing would come from the African Development Fund, the concessional lending
CMA CGM-Eurogate Partnership for Hamburg Port Expansion Falls Through
A proposed partnership between French shipping giant CMA CGM and German port operator Eurogate to develop a new terminal in Hamburg has reportedly collapsed, according to shipping analyst Alphaliner. The collaboration centered on the Westerweiterung project, a 24-hectare expansion of Eurogate’s Burchardkai facility aimed at significantly increasing the port’s capacity. While Hamburg officials had encouraged Eurogate to partner with a shipping line for the project, negotiations with CMA CGM failed
FFS Tank Terminals Secures 25-Year Concession for Liquid Bulk Terminal at Cape Town Port
The Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has appointed FFS Tank Terminals (Pty) Ltd as the preferred bidder for the acquisition, operation, maintenance, refurbishment, construction, and transfer of a R195 million Liquid Bulk Terminal at the Port of Cape Town. The terminal, located in the port’s Liquid Bulk Precinct, will be managed by FFS Tank Terminals under a 25-year concession agreement. Announcing the decision on Thursday, TNPA stated that the company
Shipwreckers Event Raises R33,000 for Charity
The annual Shipwreckers charity event, a highlight on South Africa’s logistics calendar, once again succeeded in raising significant funds for deserving causes. Held in November, the event raised R33,000 to support various beneficiaries. Organized by Land and Sea Shipping, this year’s gathering took place at the Jozi Gin Bar in Bryanston. Themed “Great Gatsby,” attendees from across the transport and supply chain industry embraced the occasion in dazzling 1920s-inspired attire,
Lebombo Border Reopens Amidst Ongoing Unrest in Mozambique
The Lebombo border with Mozambique has reopened to travelers, but with limited operations, according to an announcement by the Border Management Authority (BMA) on Thursday. Jane Thupana, the BMA’s acting commissioner, confirmed that pedestrian and small vehicle processing resumed on a restricted scale. Statistics showed that 7,471 travelers were processed on December 11, reflecting a 50% drop in movement compared to the same period in 2023. This partial reopening follows