The handling capacity at the Maputo port has been significantly enhanced with the recent addition of two state-of-the-art harbour cranes by Sociedade de Desenvolvimento do Porto de Maputo (MPDC).This upgrade to the port's infrastructure has substantially increased its operational efficiency and promises to further propel the region's economic growth.The decision to invest in these state-of-the-art cranes came as part of MPDC's ongoing commitment to bolstering Maputo port's capabilities to meet the growing demands of international trade. With these new additions, the port is now better equipped to efficiently handle larger volumes of cargo and cater to a wider range of vessels. The two Liebherr LHM 550 cranes, each with a handling capacity of 144 tons, strengthen the port’s current f leet of four mobile harbour c r a ne s (M HC s) and pave the way for greater productivity in handling general and bulk cargo at the port.According to a spokesman, the two new pieces of equipment bring MPDC’s total f leet of MHCs to six. Additional handling support equipment, such as tipplers and trailers, was also purchased, representing a total investment of $25.5 million.“The two newly installed harbour cranes are equipped with the latest technological advancements, allowing for improved productivity, precision, and safety,” said the spokesman.MPDC took delivery of its first pair of MHCs in 2015, followed by the second pair in 2018. These cranes have been critical to the port’s cargo handling operations, currently accounting for 75% of its monthly cargo movement. With the arrival of the two new MHCs, MPDC is well equipped to handle larger cargo volumes, serving large ships or those without ships’ cranes more efficiently.The newly installed cranes are strategically positioned on berths 6, 7 and 9, which underwent comprehensive rehabilitation and expansion in 2022. These berths, now boasting depths ranging from 15.2 to 16 metres, provide optimal conditions for accommodating large vessels and maximising the efficiency of cargo operations.
