Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) and the City of uMhlathuze have renewed their cooperation agreement to accelerate key infrastructure and economic development projects in Richards Bay, reaffirming a strategic partnership that has driven major improvements in port-city operations since 2018.
Signed on Monday, the new five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) strengthens executive-level collaboration between the two entities and formalises mechanisms for coordinated project delivery, dispute resolution and joint funding efforts.
Acting TNPA Chief Executive, Phyllis Difeto, said the continued partnership will better align national port priorities with local government development needs.
“The MoU with the City of uMhlathuze reinforces our joint commitment to creating a thriving regional economy through collaborative planning and infrastructure delivery. Together, we are shaping a more integrated and efficient development landscape that benefits both the Port and the City, while unlocking new opportunities for investment and community growth,” said Difeto.
The renewed agreement follows a series of joint achievements under the previous MoU. Between late 2021 and the end of 2023, TNPA and the City implemented interventions that eased truck congestion in and around the port precinct, clearing the way for the establishment of the City’s truck staging facility in 2024 and the rollout of road construction projects inside the port. These efforts improved traffic flow, enhanced safety standards and supported more efficient logistics operations.
The partnership also delivered environmental gains, including a joint beach replenishment programme and a lease agreement for the Alkantstrand Beach parking area, which will be used as a casting yard for the North Breakwater Upgrade Project starting in mid-2026.
City Mayor Xolani Ngwezi welcomed the renewed collaboration.
“As the City, we welcome the objectives that are in the MoU. The City fully embraces the cooperation and commitment in collaborating on strategic operational catalytic development, and [safety] and security environmental infrastructure of mutual significance. Therefore, the City commits to work within the guidelines of this MoU,” he said.
Several further projects are in the pipeline, including land-exchange initiatives and the reclamation of Alkantstrand Beach, all aimed at strengthening port-city integration and improving the local tourism and investment environment.
The MoU also provides a framework for coordinated work on flagship developments such as the Ports Master Plan, the proposed Container Handling Facility and upcoming Liquefied Natural Gas projects. These investments are expected to bolster regional economic growth and reinforce Richards Bay’s position as one of KwaZulu-Natal’s key industrial and maritime hubs.
TNPA said the partnership supports its mandate to advance efficient, sustainable port operations, while aligning with the City’s development agenda to ensure shared economic benefits for surrounding communities. – SAnews.gov.za
