TRANSNET has talked about developing a manganese export terminal at the Port of Ngqura since 2011. It could become a reality. Earlier this year, Transnet Port Terminals Eastern Cape managing executive, Wandisa Vazi said that an announcement in this regard “is expected soon”. In a media update issued on 26 July, Transnet GCEO, Michelle Phillips included the development of a manganese export terminal at Ngqura in her list of current projects.
She said that Transnet currently exports manganese through various channels, primarily to the Ports of Saldanha and Port Elizabeth, which together handle 15.5 million tons per annum (Mtpa) of manganese exports.
“The Ngqura Manganese Export Terminal (NMET) Project is an undertaking by Transnet to relocate and consolidate manganese exports from the bulk terminal at the Port of Port Elizabeth to the Port of Ngqura whilst at the same time expanding NMET’s capacity to an initial 16Mtpa. Transnet will seek a private sector partner to assist in funding the design and construction of NMET. This partnership is crucial for improving operational efficiencies, business liquidity, and overall execution of logistics operations.”
Manganese is currently loaded at the Port of Port Elizabeth via skiptanners which are loaded from manganese stored in open stockyards. Apart from the dust, it is a time-consuming method. For example, to load 55,000 metric tons of ore, a ship is docked for eight days. A purpose-built terminal will significantly cut this loading time and save miners costs.
A concomitant effect of faster ship loading is the need for more rapid ore delivery to the port. In her update, Phillips outlined the progress made in creating a legislative and policy framework which paves the way for third party access to Transnet’s rail system. “Transnet looks forward to the publication of the final network statement and proposed tariff methodology to open slots for third party access by 30 September 2024,” she said.
Transnet’s ‘landlord division’, Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) is also being shaken up and “corporatised”. This sets the scene for a more competitive terminal operating environment. Phillips said, “The corporatisation will establish TNPA as a financially autonomous entity capable of generating its own revenue, attract increased investments to improve the efficiency and positioning of SA ports to enhance competitive maritime trade and create appropriate partnerships. It will also, through its independence, enhance terminal licence oversight and align with international standards and regulations governing port authorities and ensure compliance with South African maritime and port regulations.”
