Port logistics company, the Newlyn Group, unveiled the Newlyn PX Bayhead rail terminal on April 4, strategically positioned next to the Port of Durban.
This initiative aims to enhance intra-Africa and local trade while fostering investment opportunities.
Newlyn CEO, Raj Balmakhun, described the launch as a significant achievement for South Africa, showcasing the synergy between the private sector and the government for national progress.
President Cyril Ramaphosa, present at the unveiling, emphasized the terminal’s importance in bolstering South Africa’s logistics infrastructure and contributing to the country’s recovery efforts, particularly for Durban and the broader KwaZulu-Natal region.
With an initial investment of R3.1 billion committed during the 2019 South African Investment Conference, the rail terminal, valued at R3.4 billion, serves as a multimodal hub facilitating the seamless movement of sea, rail, and road cargo.
The facility, equipped to handle various cargo types including bulk commodities, containers, and project cargo, fills a crucial gap by providing sufficient capacity and proximity to the Port of Durban for efficient cargo management.
Firdhose Coovadia, Chief Value Officer at Newlyn, highlighted the terminal’s modern design and enhanced rail capacity, which accelerates cargo movement from road to rail, unlocking new opportunities for businesses and supply chains.
Moreover, the terminal aligns with the objectives of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), promoting industrialization and regional economic integration.
By streamlining trade processes and improving port efficiency, it paves the way for increased intra-African trade, industrial activity, and job creation.
Throughout its development, Newlyn prioritized local integration, skills transfer, and community involvement.
The project generated over 4,000 direct jobs during construction and continues to support more than 1,000 full-time jobs during operations.
With the terminal already processing significant cargo volumes and demonstrating growth potential, it serves as a vital asset in driving economic growth and trade facilitation in Durban and beyond.
