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JIMMY MOYAHA: The Transnet National Ports Authority [TNPA], particularly at the Port of Cape Town, has noted significant improvements in operational performance. We will delve deeper into this with the acting port manager of the Port of Cape Town at TNPA.
Ophelia Shabane is with us today to discuss these advancements. Ophelia, it’s wonderful to have you on the show. Thank you for joining us.
What challenges has the Port of Cape Town encountered so far? I understand that weather has presented notable but uncommon difficulties from an operational standpoint. What other challenges is the port currently facing?
OPHELIA SHABANE: Good evening, Jimmy, and thank you for the chance to chat today. As we’ve already mentioned, weather conditions have been a significant concern at the Port of Cape Town, especially strong winds during our summer months, which align with the peak fruit-export season.
In the past, we have also faced equipment-related issues that hindered our ability to efficiently manage vessels.
This has considerably affected our performance metrics, particularly our efficiencies. However, one positive outcome for the Port of Cape Town is our noteworthy improvement in ship turnaround time — specifically, the time it takes for container vessels to enter the port, offload, and leave.
Over the last two to three years — from 2023 to 2024 — we have been able to reduce ship turnaround time by an impressive 28%.
This means vessels are spending less time at the port while handling cargo.
JIMMY MOYAHA: Thank you, Ophelia. What ongoing challenges are still present? Operating a port is complex, with some factors beyond your control, while others may be addressed.
Currently, I believe nine out of the 11 terminals are privately operated. What ongoing challenges are you addressing, and what plans does your team have to tackle them?
OPHELIA SHABANE: To summarize, particularly during our vital summer deciduous season, wind continues to be our primary challenge. In September and November alone, we lost over 330 hours each month due to wind conditions.
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Wind has been a significant hindrance, which is why we’ve collaborated with scientific institutions like the CSIR to develop an advanced predictive model for the Port of Cape Town. This cutting-edge system helps us plan cargo efficiently and anticipate strong winds, enhancing our preparedness.
Furthermore, many of the equipment issues we’ve previously encountered have been effectively tackled by Transnet.
In our container terminal, we’ve seen major investments through an equipment injection strategy, introducing new machinery like RPGs (rubber-tyred gantries) and haulers for the ports. This has greatly enhanced the availability of equipment necessary for service when shipping lines call at the Port of Cape Town.
JIMMY MOYAHA: Ophelia, let’s talk about what these strategic enhancements imply for the future of the Port of Cape Town. Clearly, reducing downtime will be crucial, along with improving operational efficiencies to boost the port’s resilience.
With regards to port sustainability and expanded stakeholder benefits, how do we ensure momentum with these enhancements?
OPHELIA SHABANE: That’s a great question. Our core strategies focus on increasing private partner involvement in the Port of Cape Town. Among the exciting initiatives our stakeholders can look forward to are two forthcoming concessions, including a request for proposals for a multi-purpose terminal. This facility will be essential for breakbulk, dry bulk, and container handling.
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Additionally, we are seeking proposals for a floating dock, which is critical for our ship-repair operations — a key driver for the economy and job creation in the Western Cape.
These initiatives underline our commitment to enhancing operational performance and adopting improvement plans that have effectively grown volumes year-over-year.
Whether dealing with containers, breakbulk, or liquid bulk, we have consistently increased the volume of cargo passing through the quay each year.
Essentially, we have also managed to minimize the time vessels stay in the port, thanks to our terminal operators’ improved efficiency, largely supported by TNPA. We are now focusing on cargo vessels and reducing marine services to their essential minimum.
JIMMY MOYAHA: Consistency and necessary enhancements are vital as we advance, especially in the port sector, where logistics significantly contribute to the economy.
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We’ll wrap up our discussion here. Thank you to Ophelia Shabane, acting port manager for the Port of Cape Town at Transnet Ports Authority, for sharing insights about the port’s improvements and its future trajectory.
