Over viewing some of the busiest ports of Africa

Africa is the world’s second largest continent covering 20% of the earth’s land and 6% of the earth’s surface. It has over 100 ports and amongst them some are mainstream. The water surfaces that are linked to this continent include Atlantic Ocean, the Indian Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. As being surrounded by such important water reservoirs, Africa becomes a very important cargo shifting region.

It is not important for its own import and export but also as a terminal for travelling ships to another region. Africa’s 90% cargo activity is conducted through sea, which makes this medium as a key source for the economy of the African countries. So, development of ports is very important for the trade of this region. Cargo to Africa is the best source of cargo shipping.

Saldanha Bay:

It is one of the largest and deepest natural ports in Africa with depth measuring 23m. An artificial breakwater improves the conditions within the bay, but during winter the severe conditions makes the ships to anchor or stand out to sea. The shippers are advised to always have crew on board in case of any emergency. The port provides general facilities and have the capacity to entertain large ships.

Cape Town:

The cape town port is very well equipped and is a full-service general cargo port. It operates the whole week and 24-hour facility is also present. The facilities offered at this port includes a 200-ton SWL floating crane, two graving docks, a syncrolift as well as onshore and quayside areas dedicated for this activity.

Mossel Bay:

This port is situated between Cape Town Port and Port Elizabeth this is the only port that operates two berth points within the port limits. For the repairs of container ships the maritime engineering firms are always present to help the shippers in any situation.

Port Elizabeth:

This port is geographically well positioned which makes it a terminal that can handle multi-cargo. Meaning that not only one type but of many type cargo can be handled at this port. The cargo that reaches this port include dry and liquid bulk, general cargo and container cargo.

East London Port:

It’s a strategically situated port, and it is the only commercial river port on the South African coastline. This port is centrally located both nationally and internationally. Its strategic importance lies in the fact that it acts as a gateway between Africa and the global market.

Durban Port:

Amongst the busiest ports in Africa Durban Port is very popular for its cargo traffic. It is one of the busiest ports in Africa. It is a multi-cargo port with ship repair yards and facilities. It offers itself as a potential offshore service point for the ones in trouble.

Port of Richards Bay:

Today, Port of Richards Bay is one of the world’s leading bulk ports. It is a very old port which was mainly established for exporting coal.

The plans which are under consideration include improving the repair services and to provide additional infrastructure within the port as well as take advantage from the Industrial Development Zone.