The Port of Mossel Bay – South Africa’s smallest commercial port and an important contributor to the economy of the Garden Route and Southern Cape – is set for further development under Operation Phakisa.
That was the message from Nico Walters, general manager: strategy at Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA), when he addressed delegates from countries including Sweden, China and Singapore at the Garden Route Investment Conference held recently in George.
“The immense potential of small ports and harbours to contribute to economic growth is acknowledged in government’s pursuit of using small harbours to attract investment in state coastal maritime, develop infrastructure and properties, grow businesses, create jobs and redistribute wealth,” said Walters.
The Operation Phakisa strategy, designed to unlock the ocean’s economy, has resulted in upgrades and new facilities for ship repair as well as the development of facilities to serve the oil and gas industry, to ensure that South Africa attracts its share of this business.
“The ocean’s wealth translates into skills development, jobs, innovation, entrepreneurship and changing the country for the better,” commented Walters.
TNPA’s Section 56 programme and leasing policy also support transformation, opening up participation in port activities to businesses owned by historically disadvantaged individuals.
Walters said development plans for the Port of Mossel Bay would ensure that it continued to create economic growth in the region. “These include the establishment of a mixed-use waterfront development that will include retail, commercial and industrial facilities,” he pointed out.
The Port of Mossel Bay is the only port operating two off-shore mooring points providing underwater vessel inspection, hull cleaning and salvage. The slipway upgrade that is in the pipeline will also support the local fishing and other industries.
