South Africa’s state-owned logistics company, Transnet, is rolling out a series of significant infrastructure upgrades aimed at improving operational efficiency and reducing persistent delays at the country’s major ports.

The initiative includes the acquisition of new cargo-handling equipment for key facilities in Durban, Cape Town, and Coega.

The move is part of Transnet’s broader strategy to modernise South Africa’s port system and restore confidence among global shipping lines and the private sector. Delays and inefficiencies in recent years have impacted trade flows, contributed to increased logistics costs, and affected the competitiveness of South Africa’s export economy.

By investing in state-of-the-art cargo-handling technology, Transnet aims to streamline turnaround times, reduce port congestion, and enhance reliability. The upgrades will also support the growing volume of container traffic and bulk cargo handled at these critical gateways.

Durban, the busiest port in sub-Saharan Africa, has been a particular focus, with new equipment expected to improve ship-to-shore operations and reduce backlogs. Cape Town and Coega are also receiving investment to bolster capacity and service delivery, particularly in the face of rising trade demands and weather-related disruptions.

The modernisation drive aligns with the South African government’s commitment to revitalising the country’s logistics infrastructure as part of its Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan. It is also expected to create job opportunities through maintenance contracts, skills development, and expanded operations.

Transnet’s leadership has emphasised the need for public-private partnerships to support these improvements and ensure long-term sustainability. The upgrades are seen as essential to unlocking South Africa’s export potential and strengthening its position as a regional trade and logistics hub.