Port of Durban set for a revamp

The Port of Durban is getting a revamp. And the Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has appointed Zutari, a leading infrastructure and advisory firm, as the transaction advisor to validate the Island View Precinct Strategy and implementation plan for the Port of Durban.

This appointment is a pivotal move aimed at transforming the liquid bulk sector in South Africa while ensuring security of supply, TNPA said.

“The Island View Strategy, originally approved in 2019, is set to undergo a comprehensive revision to ensure it remains relevant in today’s rapidly evolving landscape,” Transnet said in a statement.

“Zutari’s role will be to analyse current market trends, review existing strategies and develop a revised comprehensive plan aimed at enhancing the sector’s sustainability and operational efficiency. This initiative aligns with TNPA’S commitment to implementing global best practices.”

The Port of Durban’s Island View precinct is a South African national key point, managing approximately 74% of South Africa’s liquid bulk imports. Transnet said with 12 terminal operators over a 1 545 000 m² area, it handles a variety of products, including petroleum, chemicals and agricultural goods. As part of the country’s transition to sustainable energy, the port will also facilitate the handling of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and other cleaner energy sources.

“Zutari’s role includes ensuring that the strategy benefits both TNPA and the liquid bulk industry while safeguarding supply chain integrity, especially in this major petrochemical hub,” said Transnet.

“TNPA is committed to ensuring security of supply, improved terminal operational efficiencies, operational continuity, risk management and job preservation with the precinct supporting nearly 2 000 direct and indirect jobs as of 2022.”

Mpumi Dweba-Kwetana, Acting TNPA Managing Executive for the Eastern Region, said the Island View Strategy aims to accelerate transformation, ensure a reliable supply of liquid bulk commodities, and increase throughput efficiency.

“The appointment of Zutari is a significant milestone towards achieving these goals. Our collaborative engagement with stakeholders, including Fuels Industry Association of South Africa (formerly known as SAPIA), the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA), the Chemical and Allied Industries’ Association (CAIA), and terminal operators, has been crucial in building confidence and identifying areas for cooperation in safeguarding the liquid bulk sector,” said Ms Dweba-Kwetana.

Transnet National Ports Authority is responsible for the safe, effective, and efficient economic functioning of the national port system, which it manages in a landlord capacity. It provides port infrastructure and marine services at the eight commercial seaports in South Africa – Richards Bay, Durban, Saldanha, Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, East London, Mossel Bay and Ngqura, added Ms Dweba-Kwetana. It operates within a legislative and regulatory environment and is governed by the National Ports Act (Act No. 12 of 2005).