#APE2016: TNPA ports under spotlight

Image Source: Transnet Port Terminals

This year African Ports Evolution 2016 will be focusing on major port developments in Africa to accommodate Ultra Large Vessels (ULCV). There will also be a focus on container delivery and clearance time to make ports more efficient, as well as streamlining of ports through technology inputs.

The Port of Durban handles about 60 percent of the country’s imports and exports and is regarded as the busiest port in Sub-Saharan Africa. In response to Ultra Large Vessels calling at the ports, the Port of Durban through TNPA has embarked on a number of port expansion projects informed by Transnet’s Market Demand Strategy to create capacity ahead of demand.

Durban as a Smart Port

Ristha Joga, information, management and services manager at TNPA’s Port of Durban, will present a case study on Day One (Tuesday, 18 October) at 1pm around Durban as a Smart Port. The presentation is part of a session around Demystifying Smart Ports, which also includes a case study on the Port of Singapore as a next generation port forging ahead with various ‘smart’ initiatives.

Joga’s own presentation will unpack how South Africa’s busiest commercial port recently completed a three month ‘proof of concept’, providing a glimpse into a new era in port surveillance, monitoring, and communication using wireless connectivity and technology.

Automating marine processes

Also on Day One, Captain Naresh Sewnath, senior harbour master, will present a case study on TNPA’s Integrated Port Management System (IPMS) which automates marine processes across the country’s commercial ports. His address will take place on Tuesday, 18 October at 3.50pm as part of a session looking more specifically at Combatting Cyber Crime in Ports.

Operation Phakisa

On Day Two, Wednesday, 19 October at 1.40pm, Ricky Bhikraj, former Durban Port manager and now executive manager - Capacity and Enablement at TNPA, will deliver a presentation around The Implementation of Operation Phakisa in TNPA. Bhikraj’s address will demonstrate how TNPA has responded to the South African government’s call to develop the blue economy, including early experiences, challenges, and opportunities identified.

Operation Phakisa was announced by President Jacob Zuma in 2014 as an initiative to unlock the economy potential of South Africa’s maritime sector by accelerating investments and port infrastructure development to stimulate economic growth and job creation.

For further information, visit African Ports Evolution.