Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) is ramping up investment in critical port infrastructure with the delivery of eight new hydraulic shore tension mooring units to improve container shipping efficiency at the ports of Cape Town, Durban and Ngqura.
The latest investment forms part of TNPA’s broader port development programme aimed at strengthening vessel safety and maintaining cargo handling operations during adverse weather conditions. It also supports Transnet’s strategy to align its freight logistics operations with key commodities that contribute to South Africa’s economic growth.
The move comes as South Africa’s container sector continues to show steady growth, driven largely by agricultural exports. Between April and December 2025, TNPA recorded container throughput of approximately 3.4 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), exceeding budget by 2.3% for the period. The authority expects this upward trend to continue, forecasting container volumes of 4.5 million TEUs in the 2025/26 financial year, above the annual budget of 4.4 million TEUs.
Designed to securely moor large and newer vessels, each hydraulic shore tension unit measures 7.4 metres in length, 0.58 metres in width and 2 metres in height. The units use high-strength mooring lines to keep vessels safely alongside the berth, improving operational stability and productivity along the quay.
Of the eight units delivered, four are already operational at the Port of Cape Town’s container berths. The ports of Durban and Ngqura have each received two units, which are nearing completion of the commissioning process.
The delivery brings the total number of mooring units received by TNPA to 32, out of a planned acquisition of 52 units. The Port of Cape Town currently has the highest allocation, with 14 units. The overall investment of R534 million is expected to help reduce vessel delays and improve port efficiency.
TNPA Acting Chief Executive Mohammed Abdool said the new assets arrive at a critical time, as climate change increasingly exposes ports to strong winds of between 35 and 50 knots and sea swells exceeding 3.5 metres.
He said the investment in reliable port infrastructure is essential to meeting growing container demand and improving service levels for customers. The initiative is expected to support shipping lines and terminal operators by improving cargo handling turnaround times and enhancing the ease of doing business at South African ports. - SAnews.gov.za
