Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) and the City of uMhlathuze have renewed their Memorandum of Understanding, originally signed in 2018, to keep working together on economic development, infrastructure upgrades, and coordinated port-city planning.
The new five-year agreement sets out how both sides will work at the executive level, align projects, and jointly pursue funding for priority work.
Acting TNPA Chief Executive Phyllis Difeto said the partnership brings national port plans in line with local needs to support a smoother and more attractive operating environment.
The first MoU led to several results, including steps to reduce truck congestion around the port, the development of a truck staging area in 2024, and road projects that helped ease traffic and improve logistics.
Both parties also worked together on a beach nourishment effort and a lease arrangement at the Alkantstrand beach parking area, which will be used as a casting yard for the North Breakwater Upgrade Project starting in 2026.
Upcoming work under the renewed agreement includes land exchange projects, the reclamation of Alkantstrand Beach, and joint work on the Ports Master Plan.
Planned investments such as a new container handling facility and LNG-related projects are expected to support the local economy and strengthen Richards Bay’s role as a major industrial centre in KwaZulu-Natal.
Mayor Xolani Ngwezi welcomed the renewed partnership and highlighted its value in aligning the city’s growth with the port’s development.
sourrce: africaports.co.za
