President Cyril Ramaphosa delivers the keynote address at the launch of the Nelson Mandela MSC Cruise Terminal in Durban on Thursday. PICTURE: SUPPLIED
President Cyril Ramaphosa attended the launch of the Nelson Mandela MSC Cruise Terminal in Durban on Thursday, November 23.
The officially opening of the terminal was attended by the president, the KwaZulu-Natal Premier Nomusa Dube-Ncube, and the executive chairman of the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) Cruises Pierfrancesco Vago.
In his keynote address, President Ramaphosa said he was proud that Mandela’s name was being used positively.
“Mr Mandela is the father of democracy, and this port will no doubt boost tourism to Durban and indeed become the gateway in and out of South Africa. It will not only contribute to the economy of this province but also the rest of our country. MCS committed to R350 million in investment in South Africa - which will be used in next year’s investment conference,” said President Ramaphosa.
He added that the Nelson Mandela Terminal will be the first name cruise liner passengers will be greeted with upon disembarking in Durban. He said it will harness all the positive spirit we want tourists who visit our shores to feel and experience in South Africa.
While President Ramaphosa acknowledge Durban’s port troubles, he said the development plans are happening to improve the situation. He added that the Nelson Mandela Terminal will position Durban as a premier port of choice.
Premier Dube-Ncube said economically the terminal means a lot for the province.
“This facility was conceived as a portal to the city of Durban and the Kingdom of KZN. After years of planning and investment this day has come as we officially open what will be a strategic asset on our shores.”
Mr Vago said he was happy to be in the country to celebrate the official opening of the terminal.
“The MSC has a long history in SA, we have been here for 50 years. Our first cargo ship arrived in Durban in 1971. Since then, MSC has become the biggest user of SA ports. The company is today one of the most visible global brands, setting new standards every day as a primary player in the maritime industry and a leader in the blue economy. The people of KwaZulu-Natal share a collective sense of excitement and privilege to be part of the 300-year-old tradition of MSC which straddles many generations of the Aponte Family, the founders of the MSC Group,” said Mr Vago.