The Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has signed an agreement with the Grindrod Eyamakhosi Joint Venture to develop and operate a new container handling facility at the Port of Richards Bay.
The R285 million investment, located in the Bayvue precinct, is expected to quadruple the port’s container handling capacity—from 50,000 to 200,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) annually.
In addition to enhancing cargo throughput, the project is a key part of TNPA’s strategy to stimulate economic development in northern KwaZulu-Natal.
Speaking at the signing ceremony on Tuesday in Richards Bay, Transnet Board Chairperson Andile Sangqu said, “The establishment of this facility is critical as Transnet rolls out its ‘Reinvent for Growth’ strategy to restore operational excellence, boost the competitiveness of the national freight logistics network, and unlock long-term value for all stakeholders.
“This project exemplifies how commercial growth, community upliftment, and inclusive development can work together.
The partnership with Grindrod Eyamakhosi highlights our commitment to enabling capacity expansion through well-regulated private sector involvement.”
The agreement follows the successful conclusion of a Section 56 process under the National Ports Act No. 12 of 2005, through which TNPA awarded the joint venture preferred bidder status in June 2024 for a 25-year concession.
Grindrod CEO Xolani Mbambo emphasized the project’s alignment with the company’s broader mission to support African trade and uplift local communities.
“Partnering with Eyamakhosi brings local knowledge and authenticity to our empowerment efforts.
Our goal is to build a smart logistics hub that integrates rail, road, and sea transport to reduce costs and drive regional economic integration.”
As South Africa’s largest bulk port, Richards Bay already handles substantial volumes of coal, dry bulk, breakbulk, and liquid bulk commodities, in addition to containers.
The new container facility, located near key hinterland markets, supports Transnet’s objective of lowering logistics costs and improving turnaround times for regional and local economies.
Once operational in 2028, the facility will feature modern technology and advanced cargo-handling infrastructure designed for efficient vessel turnaround.
It is expected to create around 122 permanent jobs, benefiting the local community.
The development is a key component of TNPA’s KwaZulu-Natal port master plan, which includes reconfiguring the Port of Richards Bay to significantly increase its container and liquid bulk handling capacity.
