Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has selected five companies as preferred bidders for the development of liquid bulk and green fuel terminals in the South Dunes Precinct at the Port of Richards Bay.
The project, valued at approximately R17 billion, will be implemented under a 25-year concession.
In a statement, TNPA said the concession forms part of its strategy to expand the port’s liquid bulk handling capacity while supporting South Africa’s energy transition goals.
The announcement follows a Request for Proposals (RFP) issued on 6 December 2023, under Section 56 of the National Ports Act (No. 12 of 2005). TNPA has awarded preferred bidder status to five companies:
KZN Oils
Linsen Nambi
Protank
Bidvest/Mnambithi Consortium
KNGM Engineering
The project scope includes the funding, design, construction, operation, maintenance, and eventual transfer of the liquid bulk terminals.
The facilities will be equipped to handle a range of petrochemical and green fuel products, including diesel, petroleum, jet fuel, marine fuels, biofuels, hydrogen, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), pure butane, pure propane, base oils, and bitumen.
“This milestone strengthens the Port of Richards Bay’s role as a leading hub for liquid bulk and green fuels,” said Captain Dennis Mqadi, Port Manager at Richards Bay. “Securing long-term infrastructure investment ensures the port remains globally competitive while advancing South Africa’s energy security.”
The South Dunes Precinct development is a key component of TNPA’s KwaZulu-Natal ports master plan and aligns with the broader Transnet Segment Strategy.
TNPA emphasized that the initiative underscores its commitment to attracting private-sector investment, modernising port infrastructure, and fostering long-term economic sustainability.
According to the authority, the expansion will stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and open new opportunities for emerging operators in the terminal sector.
TNPA confirmed that negotiations will now begin to finalise Terminal Operator Agreements with the selected bidders.
