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When one also remembers that the Port of Durban handles approximately 66 percent of the country’s imports together with a sizeable chunk of its exports, making it easily the biggest money spinner within the Transnet stable – some see it as Transnet’s cash cow – it becomes easy to appreciate why Durban Harbour remains the most prized and important on the African continent. In the recent financial year Durban’s port handled 75 million tonnes of cargo and is estimated to employ in the region of 45,000 people both directly and indirectly. Add a multiplying factor of eight and some 360,000 people are dependent on Durban Harbour and those who make it work.

But its worth goes beyond the confines of the city and even the province. Durban is the entrepôt and lifeline to the Gauteng industrial heartland of southern Africa, as well as the economic gateway to regions beyond South Africa’s borders. That is why Transnet is currently spending more than R3.2 billion to widen the harbour entrance to provide safe access for ships with a beam of 43m, an overall length of 343m and a loaded draught of 14m, and container vessels of 6,600-TEU capacity (container ships up to 9,200-TEU capacity will even be able to enter using slightly reduced weather windows).

There has also been heavy investment in new post panamax gantry cranes and other equipment and infrastructure to provide the capability of handling these mega ships.

By making the harbour friendly to modern shipping Durban’s role as the country’s principal port is assured for many years ahead. For all people of Durban and KZN, and indeed for all of South Africa, that is good news.

Written By Terry Hutson