The Port of Richards Bay, which was was created for the purpose of transporting locally-mined coal to international shores, routinely handles a diverse mix of commodities including of magnetite, chrome ore, alumina, coking coal and ferro alloys today. Established in 1976, Friday, 1st April marked the Port’s 40th anniversary.
“When you consider that this area was once seen as one lacking in potential as a harbour, the rise of the port and the town as a whole becomes that much more remarkable. The success of the Port of Richards Bay over these past 40 years demonstrates the capabilities of the country and our ports in providing a system of growth that is beneficial to the surrounding communities, promoting careers and business opportunities in the maritime industry,” says Chief Executive of Transnet National Ports Authority, Richard Vallihu.
He adds that the Port’s existence has led to the creation of other industries within Richards Bay, providing thousands of direct and indirect job opportunities for the people of the city. In turn, it has transformed the small fishing village into an industrial hub, while supporting big businesses such as Richards Bay Coal Terminal, BHP Billiton, Richards Bay Minerals and Foskor.
Richards Bay breake the R1 billion turnover mark for the first time in the port’s history during the 2010-2011 financial year. During the 2015/2016 financial year the port handled 99.229 million tons of bulk and break bulk cargo.
In addition to this, the port’s 23 berths, specialised cargo handling facilities, fast vessel turnaround, deep-water infrastructure, excellent rail links to the hinterland and its large greenfield development potential, have made the Port of Richards Bay one of the world’s leading bulk ports.
Future planning at the port is in line with the South African government’s National Growth plan, and in particular the Operation Phakisa initiative where the main objectives are economic development, job creation and skills development. “The continued success of the Port of Richards Bay will be dependent upon partnerships with business and the community, and we see this landmark anniversary as a means through which these relationships can be strengthened,” says Preston Khomo, Richards Bay Port Manager.
