Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has announced the gradual resumption of operations after severe storms hit the Western Cape coast, leading to a temporary suspension of shipping movements for safety reasons. In a statement released late Thursday, TNPA reported that operations at the Port Elizabeth Bulk Terminal, Saldanha, and Cape Town Multipurpose Terminal had resumed on Wednesday. However, some ports are still facing challenges due to adverse weather conditions. “The
Category: Southern Africa
Volumes at Port of Beira trending upwards
Cold chain volumes in southern Africa are rising as capacity improves and the sector attracts more investment. Marco Grobbelaar, general manager at Independent Beira Logistics Terminals and Services (IBLT&S), reports a notable increase in volumes along the Beira corridor. Competitive landside operations and ocean freight rates compared to surrounding ports are key factors driving this growth. Import volumes of fertilizers and high expectations surrounding them also play a significant role
IATA Urges South Africa’s New Govt to Prioritize Aviation for Economic Growth
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has urged South Africa’s new Government of National Unity (GNU) to prioritize the development of its aviation sector as a vital driver of economic growth and job creation. “South Africa’s aviation industry is poised for significant growth over the next 20 years, adding 345 million additional passenger journeys by 2043,” said Kamil Al-Awadhi, IATA’s regional vice president for Africa and the Middle East. “With
Trafigura Launches Port Operations at Lobito, Transforming Logistics for the Copperbelt
Multinational commodities trader Trafigura has announced that Angola has received its first vessel at the minerals terminal at the Port of Lobito, a development expected to transform bimodal logistics serving the Copperbelt in Zambia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. On July 12, the MV Lindsaylou, a bulk cargo vessel loaded with 40,500 tonnes of sulfur, docked at Lobito, marking the commencement of port operations for the Lobito Atlantic
AfDB Approves $1 Billion Loan to Support Transnet’s Recovery and Growth Plan
The African Development Bank (AfDB) has approved a $1 billion corporate loan to Transnet, a major freight transport and logistics company in South Africa. Transnet has faced significant operational challenges in recent years, including underinvestment in infrastructure and equipment, theft and vandalism, and external shocks such as floods affecting critical rail and port operations. The company is now committed to addressing these challenges, enhancing integrity, and improving efficiency through a
Uganda Airlines Expands Routes to Abuja, Lusaka, and Harare Amid Criticism
Uganda Airlines has announced the expansion of its routes to Abuja, Lusaka, and Harare, aiming to strengthen its market position and boost revenue. The airline revealed the decision on Wednesday, highlighting its goal to enhance fleet utilization. However, some critics have raised concerns about the new destinations being commercially risky grey markets. According to the East African, the Abuja service is set to launch on September 12, 2024, with Lusaka
Zambia Commits to Enhancing Transport Infrastructure for Regional Integration
Zambia’s Minister of Infrastructure, Housing, and Urban Development, Charles Milupi, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enhancing the country’s transport infrastructure to facilitate regional integration and boost trade. Speaking at the Infrastructure Africa Conference, Minister Milupi outlined plans for the construction and rehabilitation of roads, rail lines, and aviation infrastructure through the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. Minister Milupi emphasized the strategic importance of projects such as the African Union’s trans-African highways
Zambia Railways Board Resurfaces Nacala Corridor Project to Boost Trade
To enhance Zambia’s railway infrastructure and strengthen regional trade, the Zambia Railways Limited (ZRL) Board of Directors, led by Chairperson Emmanuel Hachipuka, recently undertook a familiarization tour of the Chipata-Mchinji railway line. This visit emphasized the Board’s and Government’s commitment to resuming train operations on the Nacala Corridor, a vital trade route connecting Zambia to the Port of Nacala via Malawi and Mozambique. During a courtesy call with the Provincial
Zambia and Zimbabwe Explore 24-Hour Border Operations at Victoria Falls
The proposal for 24-hour operations at the Victoria Falls border post, a crucial link between Zambia and Zimbabwe, is gaining momentum. Ongoing discussions among stakeholders emphasize both the potential benefits and challenges of this initiative. The tourism sector is driving this proposal, viewing extended border hours as a significant advantage. Zambian Tourism Minister Rodney Sikumba highlighted the negative impact of current operating hours on small businesses. By extending border hours,
Container Handling at South African Ports Plummets 30.3% in Just One Week
Transnet is currently facing significant scrutiny following the latest Container Port Performance Index (CPPI), which ranked South Africa’s ports among the lowest of 405 evaluated worldwide. The operational efficiency of these ports has been further compromised by adverse weather conditions. The recent Cargo Movement Update (CMU), prepared by Business Unity South Africa and the South African Association of Freight Forwarders, reported a substantial week-on-week decline in container handling capacity, dropping