Africa PORTS & SHIPS maritime news 1 July 2026 - Africa Ports

Africa PORTS & SHIPS maritime news Here are the News Headlines: Beyond the Horizon: Corridors to Prosperity? Panorama: Wood chip carrier leaving Durban PIL and Evergreen launch direct Asia–South Africa corridor with Ubuntu/SAF Service Sailors’ Society expands Africa and Middle East Conferences SeaBird’s Fulmar Explorer to begin West Africa seismic project BOURBON secures major subsea services contract offshore Ghana Geopolitical instability emerges as defining risk in global shipping, ICS report finds Cape Town Container Terminal expands fleet with hybrid straddle carriers Strait of Hormuz: Large scale evecuation operation to be carried out Kobé-Kobé: Africa’s next major deepwater port takes shape in Gabon Transnet Pipeline diesel theft costs man 7 years in jail SAFLA gains seat at SARS Customs Forums, strengthening industry voice Crane fire at Durban Harbour’s D berth contained, no injuries reported ExxonMobil backs Richards Bay LNG terminal as South Africa braces for gas transition Ramaphosa authorises out-of-country SANDF deployments Transnet advances rail reform with launch of rolling stock leasing initiative Folk Maritime launches Red Sea Express service linking four ports

By Terry Hutson · July 1, 2026 · 52 min read

Bringing you shipping, freight, trade and transport related news of interest for Africa since 2002Advertise here. This space above is available. For a Rate Card email us at[email protected]DAILY BULLETIN OF MARITIME NEWSAfricaPORTS & SHIPShas brought you maritime and logistic news from the African continent since 2002. We thank you the reader for helping take our readership numbers to extraordinary high levels in 2025. As we approach the halfway mark for 2026 these numbers increase even further – thank you and stay with us for the ride. ♦ ♦ ♦♦ ♦ ♦ ♦♦♦ ♦ ♦ ♦♦ ♦ ♦Click on headlines below to go direct to story: use the BACK key to return♦♦ ♦♦ ♦ ♦♦ ♦♦Beyond the Horizon:Corridors to Prosperity?Every few weeks another announcement is made celebrating a new African transport corridor. The Lobito Corridor. The Walvis Bay Corridors. The Northern Corridor through Mombasa. The Central Corridor via Dar es Salaam. The Maputo Corridor. Renewed efforts to improve the Durban-Gauteng Corridor. The Iron Ore Corridor to Saldanha. The Richards Bay Coal Line. The Manganese Corridor. One can go on… and on!Each is presented as another important step towards unlocking Africa’s economic potential…. . Click headline for more…♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦Panorama:Wood chip carrier leaving DurbanRecent ship calls in the Port of Durban. Want to see ships in other ports? Email your photos to[email protected]. Click headline for more…♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦Public input sought: Review of Transnet’s Petroleum Pipeline tariff structureThe National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) has invited stakeholders and members of the public to submit written comments on the second consultation paper for the Review of the Rolled-in Tariff Approach used in determining Transnet SOC Limited’s tariffs for its Petroleum Pipelines System. Click headline for more…♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦Global driver shortage signals growing strain on long-haul freight systems, including Africa’s road corridorsA deepening global shortage of professional truck drivers is emerging as a structural constraint on road freight capacity, with growing relevance for African logistics corridors that depend heavily on long-haul trucking. The latest report from the International Road Transport Union (IRU) estimates that around 2. 9 million driver positions remain unfilled across 18 markets, representing about 11% of the global workforce. Click headline for more…♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦Port Sudan signals recovery with return of transshipment container operationsPort Sudan is showing further signs of recovery as a regional maritime gateway following the resumption of transshipment container operations, with the recent arrival of the container ship Transmar Legacy underlining renewed confidence in Sudan’s principal seaport. Click headline for more…♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦ONE launches new Mediterranean-West Africa container serviceOcean Network Express (ONE) has announced the launch of a new Mediterranean Africa Express (MAX) container service, providing a dedicated link between West Africa and the carrier’s Mediterranean hub network. The new weekly service is intended to strengthen shipping connections between West African ports and major international trade lanes, offering improved access to markets across Asia, Europe, the Americas and the Indian Subcontinent. Click headline for more…♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦Traxtion Imports KiwiRail Diesels for Transnet CorridorsTraxtion has begun shipping the first batch of eight diesel‑electric locomotives acquired from KiwiRail in New Zealand, part of a landmark R3. 4 billion (approx €173 million) investment programme that will see 46 units, valued at R1. 8 billion or approx €91 million) brought to South Africa. Click headline for more…♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦South African logistics sector braces for potential disruption as industry activates contingency plansWith South Africa entering Tuesday, 30 June, amid heightened tensions surrounding planned anti-illegal immigration demonstrations, much of the country’s logistics and supply chain sector has already moved into contingency mode. Although government has repeatedly stated that 30 June should proceed as a normal working day and has assured the public that law enforcement agencies are prepared to maintain order, businesses across several sectors have spent the past few days reviewing operational plans in anticipation of possible localised disruption. Click headline for more…♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦Misdeclared Cargo Fires: WSC Calls for EnforcementMisdeclared and undeclared dangerous goods continue to pose a serious and preventable threat to global shipping, with new data underscoring the scale of the risk. According to Allianz’s Safety & Shipping Review 2026, a container ship fire is recorded on average every 17 days, with misdeclared cargo identified as a major contributor. Click headline for more…♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦PIL and Evergreen launch direct Asia–South Africa corridor with Ubuntu/SAF ServicePacific International Lines (PIL), in partnership with Evergreen Marine Corporation, has inaugurated a new direct shipping link along the Indo‑Pacific corridor between Asia and South Africa, underscoring the growing importance of the Indo‑African trade corridor. Click headline for more…♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦Sailors’ Society expands Africa and Middle East ConferencesBack for a fifth year, global maritime charity Sailors’ Society has published the dates for its expanded 2026 Wellness at Sea Conferences for the next generation of maritime. These conferences provide a platform for discussions around mental wellbeing, cultural diversity, connectivity, resilience, career progression and life at sea, while ensuring more young maritime professionals have access to the practical support and wellbeing tools they need before joining the industry. Click headline for more…♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦SeaBird’s Fulmar Explorer to begin West Africa seismic projectMarine seismic specialist SeaBird Exploration, a wholly owned subsidiary of SED Energy Holdings Plc, has secured a new contract for OBN (ocean bottom node) source work offshore West Africa. The project will employ the 2009‑built survey vessel Fulmar Explorer (IMO 9418860) for approximately three months, including mobilisation and demobilisation. Click headline for more…♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦BOURBON secures major subsea services contract offshore GhanaOffshore services specialist BOURBON has signed a multi‑month subsea contract for operations on Ghana’s Jubilee field, deploying the MPSV Bourbon Evolution 802 to deliver a wide scope of inspection and intervention work. The agreement reinforces the Group’s long‑standing presence in West Africa, one of its core operating regions. Click headline for more…♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦Geopolitical instability emerges as defining risk in global shipping, ICS report findsThe International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has released its Maritime Barometer Report 2025–2026, identifying geopolitical instability as the single most significant risk confronting the global shipping industry. The findings, unveiled at the ICS Shaping the Future of Shipping Summit in Rome, underscore how political volatility is reshaping operational priorities across the sector. Click headline for more…♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦Cape Town Container Terminal expands fleet with hybrid straddle carriersThe Cape Town Container Terminal (CTCT) has taken delivery of four new hybrid straddle carriers, a R96‑million investment forming part of Transnet Port Terminals’ (TPT) national equipment replacement programme aimed at restoring full operational capacity across its terminals. Click headline for more…♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦Strait of Hormuz: Large scale evacuation operation to be carried outFollowing the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States, IMO Secretary-General Mr. Arsenio Dominguez issued this statement on 23 June: “After months of hardship and distress for thousands of innocent seafarers, and negative impact for the whole world…. Click headline for more…♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦Kobé-Kobé: Africa’s next major deepwater port takes shape in GabonConstruction has officially begun on what could become one of Africa’s most significant new port developments, with work now underway on the Kobé-Kobé deepwater port in Gabon. The project forms part of a vast integrated mining and logistics corridor designed to unlock the enormous Belinga iron ore deposits located in the country’s remote northeast and transport the ore to international markets via the Atlantic Ocean. Click headline for more…♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦Transnet Pipeline diesel theft costs man 7 years in jailThe Nigel Magistrate’s Court has sentenced Sizwe Johannes Bhengu to seven years in prison for the theft of diesel belonging to Transnet Pipelines (TPL), marking a significant victory in the fight against fuel theft. The case dates back to 27 August 2022, when Bhengu, employed by a logistics company contracted to transport recovered diesel from a spill site in Mooi River, arrived at TPL’s Jameson Park Depot. Click headline for more…♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦SAFLA gains seat at SARS Customs Forums, strengthening industry voiceThe South African Freight and Logistics Association (SAFLA) has secured formal representation on the South African Revenue Service (SARS) Customs Stakeholder Forums — a development hailed as a breakthrough for the country’s freight forwarding sector. Click headline for more…♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦Crane fire at Durban Harbour’s D berth contained, no injuries reportedA mobile crane caught fire at Durban Harbour’s D Berth in the Point precinct on the evening of Monday 22 June 2026, briefly disrupting operations. Flames were visible from surrounding areas, especially the Point area, with several videos shared on social media. Click headline for more…♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦ExxonMobil backs Richards Bay LNG terminal as South Africa braces for gas transitionRichards Bay is set to become the focal point of South Africa’s energy transition with the planned Zululand Energy Terminal (ZET), the country’s first LNG import facility. The project, valued at around $1 billion, has gained new momentum following ExxonMobil’s agreement to supply LNG, a move that secures international credibility and strengthens the case for final investment approval. Click headline for more…♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦Ramaphosa authorises out-of-country SANDF deploymentsThree letters from President Cyril Ramaphosa in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief of the SA National Defence Force (SANDF) to National Assembly (NA) Speaker Thoko Didiza put the stamp of approval on specific utilisation of defence assets and personnel in Mozambique, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Mozambique Channel. Click headline for more…♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦Transnet advances rail reform with launch of rolling stock leasing initiativeTransnet has taken another step in South Africa’s rail reform programme by inviting final proposals from two shortlisted bidders to establish a new rolling stock leasing company, commonly referred to as ‘LeaseCo’. The move follows a qualification process that began in April 2025 and attracted interest from 14 applicants. Click headline for more…♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦Folk Maritime launches Red Sea Express service linking four portsFolk Maritime has unveiled a new regional shipping service designed to strengthen trade flows across the Red Sea, connecting four key ports in Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Jordan. The Red Sea Express (RSX) service, introduced in June 2026, marks a significant step in Saudi Arabia’s drive to position itself as a global logistics hub. Click headline for more…♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦AfricaPorts & Shipsmay occasionally use AI-generated illustrations where suitable original photography is unavailable. Such images will be appropriately identified as necessary and are used for illustrative purposes only. All editorial content remains independently reported and factually verified. ♦ ♦ ♦♦ ♦ ♦ ♦♦♦ ♦ ♦ ♦♦ ♦ ♦♦♦ ♦♦ ♦ ♦♦ ♦♦Eemslift Dafne. Lyttelton Picture: Alan Calvert. Click image to enlargeTerry HutsonAfricaPorts & ShipsTraxtion has begun shipping the first batch of eight diesel‑electric locomotives acquired from KiwiRail in New Zealand, part of a landmark R3. 4 billion (approx €173 million) investment programme that will see 46 units, valued at R1. 8 billion or approx €91 million) brought to South Africa. The eight locomotives were loaded onboard the heavylift vessel Eemslift Dafne (IMO 9671448) which departed Lyttelton Harbour on 27 June for Tanjung Pelepas and is expected to arrive in Durban later in July. The Traxtion fleet is destined for refurbishment and deployment on Transnet’s 3ft 6in (Cape gauge) network, strengthening private freight services on key national corridors. Locomotive 5016 being loaded into Eemslift Dafne, Lyttelton 25 June 2026. Picture: Alan Calvert. Click image to enlargeThe 46 Cape gauge locomotives acquired from Kiwirail consist of 42 U26C type and 4 C30‑8MMI type units and are believed to be the largest private rail rolling‑stock investment in South Africa to date. Delivery will be made in four separate tranches commencing with the eight locomotives now on the water on board the Eemslift Dafne. It is understood the locomotives will be rebuilt at Traxtion’s Rail Services Hub in Rosslyn, with new engines and control systems, improving reliability and reducing fuel consumption. Traxtion already operates in 10 African countries. The new fleet will strengthen its ability to provide cost‑effective private freight services across southern Africa. Locomotive 5016 being loaded into Eemslift Dafne, Lyttelton 25 June 2026. Picture: Alan Calvert. Click image to enlargeTraxtion’s new fleet could cover around 5% of the national capacity gap, easing pressure on road transport. Together with other participants in the programme, Traxtion’s move marks a turning point in South Africa’s rail sector, introducing competition and efficiency to a system previously dominated since 1910 by Transnet in its various guises. Added 29 June 2026♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦News continues belowSouth African logistics sector braces for potential disruption as industry activates contingency plansPicture: AI for A&S. Click image to enlargeTerry HutsonAfricaPorts & ShipsWith South Africa entering Tuesday, 30 June, amid heightened tensions surrounding planned anti-illegal immigration demonstrations, much of the country’s logistics and supply chain sector has already moved into contingency mode. Although government has repeatedly stated that 30 June should proceed as a normal working day and has assured the public that law enforcement agencies are prepared to maintain order, businesses across several sectors have spent the past few days reviewing operational plans in anticipation of possible localised disruption. The greatest concern is not widespread damage to infrastructure, but rather interruptions to the movement of freight resulting from demonstrations, temporary road closures, increased police activity or employees being unable to reach workplaces. Road freight operators are expected to bear the greatest operational risk, particularly those serving the major transport corridors linking Durban, Gauteng and possibly the Eastern Cape. Any disruption along these routes could have a knock-on effect throughout national supply chains, affecting everything from container movements to retail distribution and manufacturing. Earlier on Monday, Road Freight Association Chief Executive Gavin Kelly advised operators, where possible, to complete deliveries ahead of Tuesday’s planned demonstrations and confirmed that member companies were monitoring developments on an hourly basis as part of their contingency planning. Those preparations have now largely been completed, with operators expected to rely on real-time route monitoring and operational flexibility throughout Tuesday. International shipping lines have also begun implementing precautionary measures. In a customer advisory issued on Monday, Maersk confirmed that it had activated business continuity measures “to ensure business continuity while ensuring the safety of our people, assets and our customers’ business. ”The advisory said that Johannesburg (Grindrod Logistics Denver), Cape Town and Durban Counters will be closed during Tuesday, 30 June 2026 with normal business operations re-commencing on Wednesday, 1 July 2026. “For urgent documentation, release requests, or operational queries, our Customer Experience Team remains available through the usual digital channels,” the advisory stated. The advisory added that restricted depot operations will be in place during Tuesday 30 June, subject to ongoing monitoring and real-time risk assessments. “However, no depots will be available for collections or drop-offs in Johannesburg, and only one depot will be available in the Durban area. ”The advisory illustrates that global logistics providers were preparing for operational uncertainty even though no widespread disruption had yet materialised. The ports themselves, including Durban, are expected to remain operational unless local security conditions deteriorate significantly. However, port efficiency depends heavily on the uninterrupted movement of trucks, terminal staff, customs brokers, warehouse personnel and supporting transport services. Any disruption to these links could slow cargo movements without directly affecting port infrastructure. Warehousing, distribution centres, customs clearing agents and freight forwarding companies are similarly expected to experience varying levels of operational pressure should demonstrations affect employee travel or road access. Some retailers, wholesalers and independent businesses have already indicated that they intend closing for the day as a precaution, reducing freight demand in some sectors while potentially creating additional delivery pressure later in the week. KwaZulu-Natal remains the province attracting the closest attention because of the strategic importance of the Port of Durban and its extensive road freight network. Gauteng’s concentration of warehousing and distribution facilities also represents a critical component of the national supply chain, while parts of the Eastern Cape and Western Cape are expected to maintain heightened security measures and business continuity plans. Business organisations have also urged calm while recognising the importance of maintaining lawful operations. Business Unity South Africa and Business Leadership South Africa said in a joint statement that concerns surrounding immigration should be addressed through lawful processes and stressed the importance of respecting the rule of law while maintaining business continuity and protecting economic activity. At the time of writing there was no indication that South Africa’s logistics network faced widespread shutdown. Rather, industry preparedness reflects a precautionary response to an uncertain operating environment. Shipping lines, freight forwarders, road freight operators, retailers and exporters have all implemented contingency measures ranging from revised transport schedules and route planning to service adjustments and enhanced security arrangements. How Tuesday unfolds will depend largely on whether demonstrations remain peaceful and whether the country’s principal freight corridors continue operating without significant interruption. For the logistics industry, the day is likely to be characterised not by systemic failure but by heightened operational vigilance, with companies monitoring developments closely and responding rapidly to events as they unfold. Added 29 June 2026♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦News continues belowMisdeclared Cargo Fires: WSC Calls for EnforcementAI for AP&SAfricaPorts & ShipsMisdeclared and undeclared dangerous goods continue to pose a serious and preventable threat to global shipping, with new data underscoring the scale of the risk. According to Allianz’s Safety & Shipping Review 2026, a container ship fire is recorded on average every 17 days, with misdeclared cargo identified as a major contributor. Fires on vehicle carriers are also highlighted, occurring every 37 days, with electric vehicles adding new dimensions to the challenge. Joe Kramek, President and CEO of the World Shipping Council (WSC), warned that the issue goes far beyond paperwork. “Misdeclared and undeclared dangerous goods are a known and preventable threat to seafarers, ships, cargo and the marine environment,” Kramek said. “This is not a paperwork issue. It is a life‑and‑death safety issue. ”While most shippers comply with international rules, Kramek stressed that a minority of irresponsible actors are cutting corners, hiding risks, and endangering lives — undermining those who follow the regulations. To counter this, WSC has rolled out its Cargo Safety Program, an AI‑enabled screening tool that flags high‑risk shipments before loading. One recent case involved cargo declared as ‘hand tools’ that was revealed to be lithium‑ion battery‑powered equipment — a fire hazard if improperly handled. Thousands of such incidents have already been prevented through the programme. WSC is also leading efforts at the International Maritime Organization to strengthen fire safety standards for vehicle carriers, including measures for the safe transport of electric vehicles. “Industry will do its part, but it cannot solve this challenge alone,” Kramek concluded. “Governments and regulators must enforce the international rules already in place to protect seafarers, ships, cargo and the global supply chain. ”Added 29 June 2026♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦News continues belowPanorama:Wood chip carrier leaving DurbanForest Venus Durban Picture: Keith Betts. Click image to enlargeForest Venus Durban Picture: Keith Betts. Click image to enlargeMSC Nigeria Durban Picture Benny Janse van Rensburg. Click image to enlargeVessel ParticularsShip NameIMO No. Gross Tonnage (GT)Deadweight (DWT)Year BuiltCapacity / RoleOwner / OperatorForest Venus947793349,54958,7662009Woodchip CarrierHisamoto Kisen Co. Ltd (Japan)Flag: Marshall IslandsMSC Nigeria997454179,103101,456–106,7822025Container Ship (~8,500–9,000 TEU class)(MSC)Flag: LiberiaAdded 28 June 2026♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦News continues belowPIL and Evergreen launch direct Asia–South Africa corridor with Ubuntu/SAF ServicePicture: AI/AP&S for illustrative purposes. Click image to enlargeTerry HutsonAfricaPorts & ShipsPacific International Lines (PIL), in partnership with Evergreen Marine Corporation, has inaugurated a new direct shipping link along the Indo‑Pacific corridor between Asia and South Africa, underscoring the growing importance of the Indo‑African trade corridor. PIL has christened the service the Ubuntu Express (UBX), drawing inspiration from the South African philosophy of community and interconnectedness. Evergreen, meanwhile, markets the same loop as the Far East–South Africa Express (SAF), reflecting its strategic focus on strengthening east–west connectivity while minimising supply chain disruption and bypassing time‑consuming transshipments. Service Launch and RotationThe maiden voyage departed Shanghai on 28 May 2026 with the 5,060‑TEU SC Mara. The service was inaugurated with a fully loaded vessel, and according to PIL’s South African head office in Durban, departures from South Africa will also be equally heavily loaded — an encouraging beginning for any new service. The rotation covers Shanghai – Ningbo – Kaohsiung – Shekou – Singapore – Durban – Cape Town – Singapore – Shanghai, offering weekly sailings and a full round trip of 63 days. Transit times are competitive: 27 days from Shanghai to Durban and 32 days to Cape Town, while cargo from Singapore reaches Durban in just 14 days. Strategic SignificanceThe service introduces a high‑capacity, direct corridor connecting manufacturing centres in North China, South China, Taiwan, and Singapore with major South African trade gateways. It was deployed in direct response to escalating trade demand across the Indo‑Pacific corridor, driven by expanding African consumer markets, rising industrial production, and a strong uptick in the movement of manufactured, agricultural, and temperature‑sensitive goods. It is the only direct link between Shanghai and Cape Town, eliminating reliance on transshipment hubs and reducing supply chain risks. By deploying nine modern vessels in the 4,800–5,600 TEU range, the carriers aim to provide reliable, high‑capacity solutions for both dry and refrigerated cargo. For South Africa, the loop strengthens Durban’s role as the country’s primary container gateway and enhances Cape Town’s position as a hub for agricultural exports. In Durban the service will make use of the Durban Gateway Terminal, now operated by ICTSI. Evergreen has also extended inland coverage through its Through Bill of Lading (TBOL) system, enabling cargo to move seamlessly into Botswana, Zimbabwe, Lesotho, and Eswatini, with further expansion planned. Market ContextThe launch comes amid rising bilateral trade between China and South Africa, particularly in automobiles, machinery, electronics, and consumer goods. African consumer markets are expanding, and demand for direct, predictable shipping schedules has intensified. Both PIL and Evergreen see the UBX/SAF service as a cornerstone of their long‑term Africa strategy, providing shippers with a dependable corridor at a time when traditional east–west routes face volatility. Mapwork: courtesy PIL. Click map to enlargeSAF/UBX Service SnapshotFeatureDetailsService NamesUbuntu Express (UBX)– PILFar East–South Africa Express (SAF)– EvergreenLaunch Date28 May 2026 (maiden voyage ofSC Mara)Fleet Deployment9 vessels, 4,800–5,600 TEU capacityRotationShanghai – Ningbo – Kaohsiung – Shekou – Singapore – Durban – Cape Town – Singapore – ShanghaiRound Trip Duration63 daysTransit TimesShanghai → Durban: 27 daysShanghai → Cape Town: 32 daysSingapore → Durban: 14 daysCargo FocusDry and refrigerated cargo, including manufactured, agricultural, and temperature‑sensitive goodsInland ReachEvergreen TBOL system extends coverage into Botswana, Zimbabwe, Lesotho, EswatiniAdded 28 June 2026♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦News continues belowSailors’ Society expands Africa and Middle East ConferencesPicture: Sailors Society. Click image to enlargeEdited byPaul RidgwayAfricaPorts & ShipsLondon• Reflecting the future of maritime• Growing demand for wellbeing support for cadets, ratings and traineesBack for a fifth year, global maritime charity Sailors’ Society has published the dates for its expanded 2026 Wellness at Sea Conferences for the next generation of maritime. These conferences provide a platform for discussions around mental wellbeing, cultural diversity, connectivity, resilience, career progression and life at sea, while ensuring more young maritime professionals have access to the practical support and wellbeing tools they need before joining the industry. Regional virtual eventsThe four regional virtual events entitled Future ready – thriving at sea will explore the five pillars of Sailors’ Society’s Wellness at Sea programme – social, emotional, physical, intellectual and spiritual wellbeing – through expert presentations, industry discussions and interactive sessions. Expansion to include METhis year 2026 also sees the expansion of the Africa regional event to become the Africa and Middle East Conference. “The move reflects the growing contribution both regions make to the global maritime workforce and recognises the shared experiences, challenges and opportunities facing cadets, ratings and trainees across Africa and the Middle East,” said Sailors’ Society CEO Sara Baade. “By bringing participants together under one regional event, Sailors’ Society aims to encourage greater collaboration, wider knowledge-sharing and stronger peer support networks among the next generation of seafarers. ”The acclaimed virtual conferences have already reached more than 35,000 future maritime professionals worldwide and have become a key part of helping maritime students navigate the realities of life at sea. These events complement existing training programmes by providing practical tools and insights on wellbeing, resilience, connectivity, relationships and career development. This year’s programmeThe 2026 conference programme will take place on the following dates:• Indian Subcontinent Conference – 20 August 2026• South East Asia Conference – 5 September 2026• Africa and Middle East Conference – 17 September 2026• UK and Europe Conference – 18 November 2026Online registrationRegistration for the conferences opens two months before each event, with cadets, ratings and trainees from the Indian Subcontinent able to register from 20 June atregistration IndiaConference detailsDetails on the conferences can be foundherewhere readers can also find the agenda for the day. SponsorshipBritannia P&I Club will again sponsor the 2026 South East Asia Wellness at Sea Conference. Britannia P&I has been a long-standing supporter of seafarer wellbeing through its partnership with Sailors’ Society, including sponsorship of previous South East Asia cadet conferences and wider support for Wellness at Sea initiatives. About Sailors’ SocietyFor more than 200 years, international maritime charity Sailors’ Society has been transforming the lives of seafarers and their families. The charity works to provide practical, emotional and spiritual welfare support around the clock, day in, day out to today’s 1. 9 million seafarers, supporting wellbeing across every area of their lives and giving them the best opportunity to enjoy a fulfilling – and productive – career at sea. For more information on the charity’s work readers are invited to use the linkhereAdded 28 June 2026♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦News continues belowSeaBird’s Fulmar Explorer to begin West Africa seismic projectAfricaPorts & ShipsMarine seismic specialist SeaBird Exploration, a wholly owned subsidiary of SED Energy Holdings Plc, has secured a new contract for OBN (ocean bottom node) source work offshore West Africa. The project will employ the 2009‑built survey vessel Fulmar Explorer (IMO 9418860) for approximately three months, including mobilisation and demobilisation. The campaign will follow the vessel’s scheduled five‑year class renewal in August 2026 and will involve ocean‑bottom‑node seismic acquisition, a technique that places sensors directly on the seabed to capture high‑resolution subsurface data. This method is increasingly used to support exploration and field development decisions in mature offshore basins. Strengthening Regional PresenceSeaBird’s Chief Executive Officer Finn Atle Hamre said the contract “reflects continued demand for our OBN source capabilities and our ability to deliver reliable and efficient operations. ”He added that the award “positions Fulmar Explorer well for follow‑on opportunities” as the company sees growing demand for seismic services across West Africa. The project adds to SeaBird’s expanding 2026 schedule and reinforces its strategic focus on West African energy markets, where several international operators are advancing exploration and appraisal programmes. The company’s backlog has strengthened through recent contracts that highlight its niche expertise in OBN source work and vessel‑based seismic support. Seabird Exploration’s source vessel Fulmar Explorer. Picture; Seabird Exploration. Vessel ProfileThe Fulmar Explorer is a multi‑streamer seismic research vessel designed for deep‑water operations. Equipped with advanced positioning and source systems, it provides flexible deployment for both conventional and node‑based surveys. The ship’s technical configuration enables efficient mobilisation and safe handling of complex seismic arrays, making it well suited to the region’s demanding offshore conditions. OutlookSeaBird Exploration’s latest contract underscores the resilience of the marine seismic sector amid fluctuating exploration budgets and evolving energy priorities. The company expects the West Africa campaign to contribute to its 2026 revenue backlog and to strengthen its foothold in one of the world’s most active offshore exploration zones. Added 28 June 2026♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦News continues belowBOURBON secures major subsea services contract offshore GhanaThe multi-purpose supply vessel MPSV Bourbon Evolution 802, deployed to Ghana’s Jubilee Field. Picture: Bourbon Click image to enlargeAfricaPorts & ShipsOffshore services specialist BOURBON has signed a multi‑month subsea contract for operations on Ghana’s Jubilee field, deploying the MPSV Bourbon Evolution 802 to deliver a wide scope of inspection and intervention work. The agreement reinforces the Group’s long‑standing presence in West Africa, one of its core operating regions. Comprehensive CampaignThe Bourbon Evolution 802, equipped with two work‑class HD remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), will undertake inspection, maintenance and repair (IMR) services on wellheads, clean the mooring chains of a floating production storage and offloading unit (FPSO), and carry out survey operations. The campaign also covers pipeline and X‑tree installation. Around sixty personnel, including client representatives, are currently on board to support the programme. Built for demanding subsea operations, the vessel combines surface support with deep‑water intervention capabilities, enabling BOURBON to manage the full operational value chain. Strengthening a Strategic FootholdThe new contract underscores BOURBON’s commitment to West Africa, a historic core region for the Group where a hundred vessels are currently inoperation. Since 2021, BOURBON has conducted multiple campaigns on Tullow‑operated fields, including with the Bourbon Evolution 804. “This contract reflects our ability to deliver integrated subsea solutions that combine engineering and offshore operations in our traditional markets,” said Karim Mebarek, BOURBON’s Chief Commercial Officer. “The Bourbon Evolution 802 is exactly the type of vessel that allows us to support our clients on technically complex projects, backed by a strong local presence and teams with deep expertise in the region. ”Added 28 June 2026♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦News continues belowGeopolitical instability emerges as defining risk in global shipping, ICS report findsPicture: ICS Maritime Barometer Report 2025-2026AfricaPorts & ShipsThe International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has released its Maritime Barometer Report 2025–2026, identifying geopolitical instability as the single most significant risk confronting the global shipping industry. The findings, unveiled at the ICS Shaping the Future of Shipping Summit in Rome, underscore how political volatility is reshaping operational priorities across the sector. The Barometer, which drew a record number of responses from shipowners, operators, and C-suite leaders worldwide, highlights how instability acts as a ‘risk multiplier,’ amplifying challenges such as cybersecurity threats, regulatory fragmentation, administrative burdens, and shifting trade patterns. Thomas A. KazakosThe report paints a picture of an industry navigating a fragmented and unpredictable environment, yet demonstrating resilience and adaptability. “Global shipping is entering a period where uncertainty is no longer an interruption to business, it is the backdrop against which decisions are made,” commented ICS Secretary General Thomas A. Kazakos. “Geopolitical instability has become a defining risk multiplier, influencing everything from market conditions and operational planning to investment decisions and the pace of the energy transition. ”Decarbonisation Under UncertaintyA dedicated fuels section of the Barometer reveals how regulatory and market uncertainty is shaping the industry’s approach to decarbonisation. Respondents identified LNG and biofuels as the most viable options for the next decade, followed by heavy fuel oil (HFO) with abatement technologies. This reflects a pragmatic preference for fuels supported by established supply chains and infrastructure, even as cost and availability challenges persist. Kazakos stressed the need for stable frameworks. “Maintaining progress will require regulatory clarity, global alignment, and continued cooperation between industry and governments,” he said. “At a time of increasing fragmentation, maintaining a consistent global approach is essential for shipping, supply chains, and the wider world economy. ”Call for CoordinationThe report concludes with a call from industry leaders for greater coordination, regulatory clarity, and financial support to ensure shipping can continue to underpin global trade while advancing its energy transition. Despite the turbulence, the Barometer underscores the sector’s determination to adapt and maintain its essential role in connecting economies worldwide. The full report can be downloadedhereAdded 28 June 2026♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦News continues belowCape Town Container Terminal expands fleet with hybrid straddle carriersPicture: TransnetAfricaPorts & ShipsThe Cape Town Container Terminal (CTCT) has taken delivery of four new hybrid straddle carriers, a R96‑million investment forming part of Transnet Port Terminals’ (TPT) national equipment replacement programme aimed at restoring full operational capacity across its terminals. The new machines, which arrived fully assembled, is reported to represent the first deployment of hybrid straddle carrier technology in Southern Africa. Each unit combines diesel and electric power, and will require onboard computers to provide operators real‑time cargo tracking and handling instructions. Operator conversion training is under way ahead of the equipment’s handover to operations in July. Earle Peters, Managing Executive for the Cape Terminals, said the technology allows the diesel engine to charge onboard batteries, switching to electric mode once fully charged. “This reduces fuel consumption, lowers emissions and decreases noise levels while maintaining the performance required in a busy terminal environment,” he explained. The investment strengthens CTCT’s daily operations, giving teams greater flexibility in managing container movements and customer requirements. Traditionally a rubber‑tyred gantry crane (RTG) operation, the terminal is transitioning to a hybrid system using both straddles and RTGs to meet yard capacity and throughput demand. Despite weather‑related disruptions totalling more than 74 days over the past year, CTCT has improved productivity and annual volumes following the injection of new equipment. TPT has invested R9 billion over the past three years in new cargo‑handling equipment across its 15 terminals nationwide, including straddle carriers and empty container handlers for Cape Town and Port Elizabeth, RTGs for Durban Pier 1, reach stackers for multipurpose terminals, and haulers for Richards Bay. Added 24 June 2026♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦News continues belowStrait of Hormuz:Large scale evacuation operation to be carried outPicture: www. imo. org IMO ©. Click to enlargeEdited byPaul RidgwayAfricaPorts & ShipsLondonFollowing the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States, IMO Secretary-General Mr. Arsenio Dominguez issued this statement on 23 June:“After months of hardship and distress for thousands of innocent seafarers, and negative impact for the whole world, I welcome with deep satisfaction the peace agreement concluded between the United States and Iran, marking a decisive step towards restoring maritime security and bringing to an end the unacceptable attacks against civilian shipping. “I want to pay tribute to the fourteen innocent seafarers who tragically lost their lives during this conflict. Their dedication in service of global trade will not be forgotten. “We will begin the implementation of the evacuation plan for over 11,000 seafarers still stranded in the region. This large-scale operation will be carried out in close cooperation with Iran, Oman, all other coastal States in the region, the United States and the maritime industry. “We have secured the necessary safety guarantees and have thoroughly verified the conditions for safe navigation to support these operations. “We remain fully committed to ensuring the safety of seafarers and the continuity of global trade. ”A wealth of informationReaders are invited to see the full two-page Notice to Mariners issued by Oman (NAVAREA IX)here. To read the Operational FAQs surrounding the IMO Strait of Hormuz Evacuation Plan readers are invited to use the linkhere. For more updates, see theIMO briefing on Middle East. International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) adviceAt the same time as the IMO material was being promulgated an International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) spokesman commented:“The priority remains the safe evacuation of the 11,000 seafarers who have been stranded in the region since the end of February. “We have consistently said that this will require coordination between the International Maritime Organization (IMO), states in the region and crucially the industry. “The IMO evacuation plan is a welcome development to delivering this coordination and restoring freedom of navigation. It is vital this plan works in harmony, rather than conflicting, with existing mechanisms. “We will continue to work with the IMO and industry partners to ensure the safety and security of shipping seeking to exit the region. ”Added 24 June 2026♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦News continues belowKobé-Kobé:Africa’s next major deepwater port takes shape in GabonThe iron ore site at Belinga in the north-east of Gabon, about 550 kilometres by a planned railway to the new port of Kobé-Kobé, south of Libreville. Picture: Fortescue Belinga. Click image to enlargeTerry HutsonAfricaPorts & ShipsConstruction has officially begun on what could become one of Africa’s most significant new port developments, with work now underway on the Kobé-Kobé deepwater port in Gabon. The project forms part of a vast integrated mining and logistics corridor designed to unlock the enormous Belinga iron ore deposits located in the country’s remote northeast and transport the ore to international markets via the Atlantic Ocean. Launched by Gabonese President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema earlier this month, the development extends far beyond the construction of a new port. The programme includes a new 550-kilometre railway linking the Belinga mining region in the north-east of the country with the coast, associated power infrastructure and industrial facilities, and is expected to require investment estimated at around US$10 billion. Picture: Presidential Communications, GabonAt the heart of the project is the Kobé-Kobé deepwater port, located approximately 70 kilometres south of Libreville. Designed as a four-berth mineral export terminal capable of accommodating large bulk carriers, the facility is expected eventually to support exports exceeding 100 million tonnes of iron ore annually. The port is being developed through a partnership between the Gabonese government and Africa Global Logistics (AGL), the MSC Group-owned logistics operator that already plays a major role in the country’s transport and port sectors. Financing support is being provided by Algest Investment Bank. The development is closely linked to the Belinga iron ore project, one of the world’s largest undeveloped high-grade iron ore deposits. The mining project is being advanced by Fortescue and its partners, with feasibility and development work continuing on the resource. While iron ore exports provide the principal justification for the investment, the Kobé-Kobé development is intended to become much more than a single-purpose mining terminal. Gabonese authorities envisage the port serving as a strategic industrial and logistics platform capable of handling a range of bulk, breakbulk and industrial cargoes as the country’s economy diversifies. Importantly, the new port is not expected to replace the existing port of Owendo. Instead, the two facilities are intended to serve complementary roles (similar to the relationship between Durban and Richards Bay), with Owendo remaining the country’s primary commercial and container gateway while Kobé-Kobé develops into a specialised deepwater export hub for mineral and industrial traffic. For Gabon, the project represents one of the most ambitious infrastructure investments in the country’s history. For Africa’s maritime sector, it is another example of the growing importance of integrated resource corridors linking inland mineral deposits to modern deepwater ports capable of serving global trade. Should the railway and port be completed according to current plans, Kobé-Kobé could emerge during the next decade as one of Africa’s largest dedicated mineral export gateways and a major new player in the continent’s bulk shipping landscape. Added 24 June 2026♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦News continues belowTransnet Pipeline diesel theft costs man 7 years in jailPicture AI generated for illustrative purposes, Africa Ports & ShipsAfricaPorts & ShipsThe Nigel Magistrate’s Court has sentenced Sizwe Johannes Bhengu to seven years in prison for the theft of diesel belonging to Transnet Pipelines (TPL), marking a significant victory in the fight against fuel theft. The case dates back to 27 August 2022, when Bhengu, employed by a logistics company contracted to transport recovered diesel from a spill site in Mooi River, arrived at TPL’s Jameson Park Depot. Routine checks revealed discrepancies between the volume loaded and the volume delivered. Investigations later confirmed that 24,079 litres of diesel, valued at more than R544,000, had been unlawfully siphoned from the tanker before arrival. TPL’s security team intervened, leading to Bhengu’s arrest and the opening of a criminal case with the South African Police Service. The investigation was led by Captain Radebe of the Hawks, with support from TPL’s security division. The court found Bhengu guilty of theft, handed down a direct prison sentence, and declared him unfit to possess a firearm. He accepted the judgment without appeal. TPL Chief Executive Sibongiseni Khathi said the conviction “sends a strong message that the theft of fuel is a serious offence that will not go unpunished,” adding that the prosecution underscores Transnet’s commitment to safeguarding its assets and working with law enforcement to hold offenders accountable. Members of the public are urged to report suspicious activity along pipeline servitudes via the Tip‑Offs Anonymous Hotline: 0800 003 056. Added 24 June 2026♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦News continues belowSAFLA gains seat at SARS Customs Forums, strengthening industry voiceDave Logan, SAFLA’s Executive OfficerAfricaPorts & ShipsThe South African Freight and Logistics Association (SAFLA) has secured formal representation on the South African Revenue Service (SARS) Customs Stakeholder Forums — a development hailed as a breakthrough for the country’s freight forwarding sector. Institutional access to policy and operationsSAFLA’s Executive Officer, Dave Logan, confirmed that the association will now participate in SARS’s structured, multi‑tiered engagement framework. This includes the National Stakeholder Forum, the National Operations Stakeholder Forum, Regional Stakeholder Engagements, and Key Industry Engagements. “These forums are the primary platform through which industry associations engage SARS on customs and excise matters,” Logan said. “Our members face daily challenges at the border. Having a formal seat means we can raise systemic issues constructively and contribute to a more efficient and transparent customs environment. ”Scope of engagementThe forums cover both strategic and operational concerns, ranging from regulatory alignment to branch‑level bottlenecks. Issues under discussion include registration, clearance, inspections, penalties, dispute resolution, and broader trade facilitation measures. Unlike advisory committees, the forums are designed to foster direct collaboration between SARS and the private sector. The aim is to protect South Africa’s economy, accelerate trade flows, and strengthen the country’s reputation as a reliable global trading partner. Escalation pathway for industry concernsProblems that cannot be resolved bilaterally between businesses and SARS will now have a structured escalation route via SAFLA’s participation. This ensures the collective voice of freight forwarders and logistics operators is heard in shaping customs policy and practice. Logan described the development as “a defining moment for SAFLA and, more importantly, for every business operating within South Africa’s freight and logistics sector. ”Alignment with national trade prioritiesSAFLA’s involvement aligns with the broader mandate of SARS’s stakeholder framework, which emphasises professional standards, harmonised trade practices, and the removal of barriers to commerce. The association has encouraged members and stakeholders to channel customs‑related concerns through SAFLA for representation at the appropriate forum level. SARS Customs Stakeholder Forums – Four Levels of EngagementForum LevelFocus AreaNational Stakeholder ForumBroad regulatory and strategic customs policyNational Operations Stakeholder ForumOperational standards, compliance processes, national coordinationRegional Stakeholder EngagementsDay‑to‑day challenges at branch and regional levelKey Industry EngagementsSector‑specific issues, systemic bottlenecks, dispute resolution“Securing representation at the SARS Customs Stakeholder Forums is a defining moment for SAFLA and, more importantly, for every business operating within South Africa’s freight and logistics sector. ”— Dave Logan, SAFLA Executive OfficerAdded 24 June 2026♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦News continues belowCrane fire at Durban Harbour’s D berth contained, no injuries reportedAfricaPorts & ShipsA mobile crane caught fire at Durban Harbour’s D Berth in the Point precinct on the evening of Monday 22 June 2026, briefly disrupting operations. A screengrab from social media showing the fire, filmed by David CrouchFlames were visible from surrounding areas, especially the Point area, with several videos shared on social media. Transnet confirmed the incident, stating that operations were suspended for about an hour while emergency crews and a tugboat responded. The affected mobile crane was in front of the container ship MSC HINA at the time and in order to be of use the attending tug was forced to spray water from its cannon across the wide deck of the ship. No injuries have been reported, nor was the cause of the fire immediately apparent, though a leaking or severed fuel line may have been the reason. The potential loss of the crane even for a short period could affect cargo working at the Point Terminal, which operates either with ship’s own gear or the terminal’s two mobile cranes. Added 23 June 2026♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦News continues belowExxonMobil backs Richards Bay LNG terminal as South Africa braces for gas transitionRichards Bay LNG GatewayExxonMobil supply deal anchors South Africa’s first LNG import terminal, with a floating storage vessel as the pivotal Phase 1 asset. Picture for illustrative purposes only. AI by Africa Ports & Ships Click image to enlargeAfricaPorts & ShipsRichards Bay is set to become the focal point of South Africa’s energy transition with the planned Zululand Energy Terminal (ZET), the country’s first LNG import facility. The project, valued at around $1 billion, has gained new momentum following ExxonMobil’s agreement to supply LNG, a move that secures international credibility and strengthens the case for final investment approval. At the heart of the development is a Floating Storage Unit (FSRU) — a vessel permanently moored at the port. This ship will receive LNG cargoes from international suppliers and store them in cryogenic tanks. The liquid cargo will be converted back into gas through a landside regasification system. From there, the gas will be fed into Transnet’s pipeline network and distributed to customers ranging from Eskom’s planned 3,000 MW gas-to-power station at Richards Bay to heavy industries in the surrounding Industrial Development Zone. A second phase envisions onshore tanks and expanded capacity, ensuring Richards Bay evolves into a regional hub for LNG distribution. The timing is critical. South Africa faces a looming ‘gas cliff’ as supplies from Mozambique’s Pande-Temane fields decline by 2030. Without new sources, industries and power producers risk losing access to a vital fuel. LNG is seen as a bridge energy source — cleaner than coal, flexible enough to support renewable integration, and essential for stabilising the national grid. Currently, South Africa’s use of LNG is limited, with small-scale imports serving niche industrial needs. The Richards Bay terminal will mark the country’s first large-scale entry into the global LNG market, opening the door to wider adoption in power generation, manufacturing, and even regional exports to neighbours such as Zimbabwe and Botswana. For Eskom, the project is pivotal. The utility’s gas-to-power ambitions hinge on reliable supply, and ExxonMobil’s involvement provides assurance that fuel will be available when the plant comes online. For industry, LNG offers a competitive alternative to coal and diesel, supporting smelters, chemical plants, and manufacturing operations in Richards Bay and beyond. The terminal also aligns with South Africa’s Just Energy Transition, providing lower-carbon baseload power while renewables scale up. Challenges remain. Financing must be secured, regulatory approvals finalised, and infrastructure expanded to handle distribution. LNG pricing is another concern, as imported gas is more expensive than domestic coal. Yet the strategic benefits — energy security, industrial growth, and regional leadership — outweigh the risks. With ExxonMobil’s supply commitment, the Zululand Energy Terminal has moved from concept to credible reality. Richards Bay is poised to become the gateway for LNG into Southern Africa, anchoring the country’s energy future and ensuring that when the gas cliff arrives, South Africa will not be left in the dark. Zululand Energy Terminal (ZET)AspectDetailsLocationPort of Richards Bay, KwaZulu‑NatalDevelopersRoyal Vopak Terminal Durban, Transnet Pipelines, Reatile GroupEstimated Cost≈ $1 billion (≈ R15 billion)Phase 1Floating Storage Unit (FSU) – 170,000 m³, 3 mtpa capacityPhase 2Onshore tank + expanded capacity to 4. 5 mtpaAnchor CustomerEskom – 3,000 MW gas‑to‑power plant at Richards BayOther CustomersRichards Bay IDZ industries (chemicals, smelting, manufacturing); regional exports to Zimbabwe, Zambia, BotswanaSupply PartnerExxonMobil – LNG supply agreementTimelineFID expected 2027–2028; Phase 1 operations targeted for 2030Strategic RoleBridge fuel for power generation, industrial growth, regional LNG hub⚓ Zululand Energy Terminal – Floating Storage Unit `Phase 1 of the Zululand Energy Terminal hinges on a floating storage vessel at Richards Bay — South Africa’s first LNG gateway, bridging the country’s energy transition until permanent onshore tanks are built. FeatureDetailsPhase 1 AssetFloating Storage Unit (FSU) permanently moored at Richards BayCapacity~170,000 m³ LNG storageFunctionReceives LNG cargoes, stores cryogenic liquid, interfaces with onshore regasificationSend‑out Rate~400 mmscfd (≈ 3 mtpa)Maritime RoleSouth Africa’s first LNG gateway, enabling imports before shore‑based tanks are builtPhase 2 TransitionAddition of 220,000 m³ onshore tank; FSU may be replaced or retained as backupStrategic ImportanceProvides immediate import capacity, reduces upfront cost, accelerates commissioningAdded 23 June 2026♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦News continues belowRamaphosa authorises out-of-country SANDF deploymentsSAS Adam Kok III at sea outside the port of Durban where the navy’s MMIPV’s are stationed. Picture: Clinton Wyness. Click image to enlargeDefenceWebThree letters from President Cyril Ramaphosa in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief of the SA National Defence Force (SANDF) to National Assembly (NA) Speaker Thoko Didiza put the stamp of approval on specific utilisation of defence assets and personnel in Mozambique, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Mozambique Channel. In one instance, a letter notifies Parliament of an extension to the maritime security deployment Operation Copper, while a second confirms military assistance to then flood-stricken Mozambique for four months starting in January this year. The third Presidency missive authorises the “phased and timely withdrawal” of SANDF equipment and troops still in the Democratic Republic of Congo. DRCThe central African extension to wrap up Operation Thiba (South Africa’s contribution to the now defunct Southern African Development Community Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo – SAMIDRC) sees 25 SANDF personnel, not named but probably from Department of Defence (DoD) Logistics Division elements, taking charge of returning South African military equipment firstly by land to Tanzania and then by sea to Durban before a final leg to home units and/or formations. This follows the mid-March 2025 termination of the SAMIDRC mandate after the fall of Goma to M23 rebels last January. Mindful that the mandate of the SADC Mission in the DRC was terminated, “the purpose of this employment is for the SANDF to successfully and safely repatriate RSA personnel and equipment from DRC to RSA via Tanzania. The withdrawal will be conducted for a period of six months, from 16 December 2025 to 30 June 2026,” at a cost of R37. 7 million, Ramaphosa’s letter read. The SANDF is, meanwhile, withdrawing its contribution to the United Nations mission in the DRC (MONUSCO). In a letter to Didiza dated 13 February, Ramaphosa extended the MONUSCO deployment for six months to complete the withdrawal, with 450 SANDF members remaining in the DRC for this purpose. To manage the “phased withdrawal”, Ramaphosa authorised the employment from 1 February 2026 until 31 July 2026 at an estimated cost of R883,124,104. Typically, compensation of employees (CoE) accounts for the majority of expenses and is paid to SANDF members anyway regardless of where they are deployed. During his Armed Forces Day address on 21 February, Ramaphosa said that the government is closing defence funding gaps, improving efficiencies and ensuring operational ambitions are matched by resources. Part of this reprioritisation process is drawing down South Africa’s participation as a troop-contributing nation to MONUSCO. SA Navy MMIPVs SAS King Shaka Zulu and SAS Adam Kok III taking part in Exercise Red Lion 2025. Picture: SA Navy. Click image to enlargeOperation CopperThe extension of Operation Cropper, South Africa’s commitment to the Southern African Development Community Maritime Security Strategy (SADC MSS) for a further 12 months, was dated 11 June – over two months post its 31 March mandate expiry date. The maritime security deployment is for 200 SANDF personnel from 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2027. Given its mandate is patrolling to counter piracy and “other illicit maritime activities” the extension should see an SA Navy (SAN) platform on station in the Mozambique Channel. Depending on which platforms are selected and for how long, the crew component for a Valour Class frigate numbers 120 including air and support crew for a Super Lynx maritime helicopter. If a Warrior Class MMIPV (multi-mission inshore patrol vessel) is given the nod, its crew should not exceed 50. Shore-based personnel will support the ship/s adjudged operationally able to cope with deployment demands. Cost-wise, the extension of Operation Copper is given as R33,992,978. According to Timothy Walker, Senior Researcher, Transnational Threats and Organised Crime, at the Institute for Security Studies (ISS), the SANDF has been conducting Operation Copper in the northern Mozambique Channel since 2011 after the hijacking of the Mozambican fishing vessel Vega 5 in late 2010. The incident seemed to suggest that the southward expansion of Somali piracy into the Mozambique Channel from 2008 to 2010 was unavoidable. For over a decade, there has been no sustained piracy threat in the area. And for at least the past four years, the navy has lacked the capacity to execute Operation Copper meaningfully. This suggests the mission has been sustained for political reasons rather than its ability to prevent piracy, Walker wrote. In 2011 and 2012, the country’s navy maintained near-continuous patrols. All its major available naval assets have been on station there at least once. These ships carried elements from the newly launched Maritime Reaction Squadron and ship-riders from Mozambique to take captured pirates into custody. This presence was supported by South African Air Force assets. Despite heightened piracy threats, Operation Copper yielded few direct engagements. Only a single 2012 incident saw the Drakensberg support Spanish and Tanzanian vessels intercept a pirate ship. Tanzania’s exit from the trilateral arrangement that year eroded the deployment’s intended regional character, which was never restored, Walker noted. “From 2013, Operation Copper gradually lost intensity and capacity as South Africa relied more on offshore patrol vessels or intermittent deployments since its major combatants, the frigates and Drakensberg, had become unavailable. With the shift from continuous to periodic patrols, no ship has been on station since 2022 due to vessels needing repairs and maintenance. ”Operation Copper has provided the SA Navy with valuable time at sea, helped improve maritime security in the region, and signalled that South Africa would not leave maritime security to external powers, but according to Walker, these gains have been uneven and costly. Deployments were often limited by unavailable platforms and by instances in which vessels broke down en route or were not deployable due to maintenance backlogs. “Rather than expanding into a genuinely collective regional effort, the operation remains narrow and dependent on South Africa. Even so, it continues to be justified in regional terms…Operation Copper risks appearing as a national deployment under the SADC name, but largely detached from – and not demonstrably advancing – the region’s maritime security strategy. Such a shift demands transparency around what the operation has delivered, including published outcomes assessments, clearer accounting of resource allocation, and a rigorous evaluation of impact. “Otherwise, Operation Copper risks remaining a paper deployment increasingly decoupled from its original rationale and threat profile, and sustained less by necessity than by institutional continuity and unresolved political logic,” Walker concluded. Flood reliefWhen South Africa’s eastern neighbour Mozambique was again struck by floods in January, Ramaphosa authorised “employment” of 100 SANDF personnel to provide humanitarian assistance. The assistance, as per The Presidency, in line with “the urgent and exceptional nature” of the call for help from Mozambique, was in terms of Operation Climate Change and saw 100 SANDF personnel on the ground in the central and southern parts of Mozambique from 18 January to 18 April. Ramaphosa’s Operation Climate Change letter is dated 12 June. He extended “sincere apologies for the delayed submission of this correspondence” and sought Parliamentary understanding “in light of the emergency circumstances under which the deployment was effected. ”The flood relief operation cost approximately R39 million. While not mentioned in Ramaphosa’s letter, the single Oryx and three A109 helicopters deployed to Mozambique rescued more than 700 people and delivered several tons of food aid as well as hundreds of litres of fuel. Almost 300 Mozambicans were killed and nearly 900,000 affected by flooding early this year. Written by Defenceweb and republished with permission. The original article can be foundhereAdded 23 June 2026♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦News continues belowTransnet advances rail reform with launch of rolling stock leasing initiativeModern class 44 diesel-electric locomotives of Transnet Freight Rail, at Koedoespoort, 2015. Picture: Col André Kritzinger via Wikipedia CC BY-SA 3. 0Terry HutsonAfricaPorts & ShipsTransnet has taken another step in South Africa’s rail reform programme by inviting final proposals from two shortlisted bidders to establish a new rolling stock leasing company, commonly referred to as ‘LeaseCo’. The move follows a qualification process that began in April 2025 and attracted interest from 14 applicants. The new company is intended to address one of the major barriers facing the country’s rail sector — the shortage of locomotives and wagons available to freight operators. Under South Africa’s rail reform strategy, Transnet’s rail network is gradually being opened to third-party train operating companies (TOCs), allowing private operators to run trains on the national rail system. However, many prospective operators lack access to suitable rolling stock, while acquiring locomotives and wagons requires substantial capital investment and long lead times. LeaseCo is intended to bridge this gap by purchasing, refurbishing, managing and leasing rolling stock to operators in both South Africa and neighbouring countries. The objective is to create a commercially sustainable pool of locomotives and wagons that can be rented by operators as required, rather than forcing each operator to invest in its own fleet. The proposed structure would see Transnet contribute a ring-fenced fleet of existing rolling stock assets as equity in the business. The company would also draw on technical support and maintenance capabilities from Transnet Engineering. A private-sector majority partner would provide investment capital, management expertise and operational capability to rehabilitate and expand the fleet. According to Transnet, the initiative is intended to improve the utilisation of rail assets, lower barriers to entry for new train operators and stimulate greater competition within the freight rail sector. Group Chief Executive Michelle Phillips said there is significant demand for freight rail services that cannot currently be met because of limited rolling stock availability. She described LeaseCo as a mechanism for attracting private investment into the rail sector while improving the reliability and availability of freight transport. Transnet says it has already begun discussions with newly licensed train operating companies to assess their fleet requirements and has secured commitments from five operators that intend making use of the leasing company’s services. Demand is expected to increase further as the Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM) allocates additional train paths on the network to private operators. The success of the venture will be closely watched by the logistics industry. While opening access to rail infrastructure has been a major focus of government policy, the availability of locomotives and wagons has emerged as an equally important constraint. Without sufficient rolling stock, newly licensed operators are unable to fully utilise network access opportunities, limiting the pace of rail sector reform. If successfully implemented, LeaseCo could become one of the most important enabling mechanisms in South Africa’s rail modernisation programme, helping to increase freight volumes on rail, reduce pressure on road networks, improve supply chain efficiency and attract new private-sector participation into the industry. One issue that will be closely watched by prospective operators is the quality of the rolling stock transferred into LeaseCo. South Africa’s rail sector has long memories, and past debates over the allocation of assets following rail restructuring continue to influence perceptions. For the new leasing company to succeed, operators will need confidence that the locomotives and wagons made available are not merely surplus assets, but reliable and commercially viable equipment capable of supporting modern freight operations. In this regard, transparency around fleet condition, refurbishment programmes and governance arrangements may prove just as important as the capital invested in the venture itself. Added 22 June 2026♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦News continues belowFolk Maritime launches Red Sea Express service linking four portsFolk Maritime’s Red Sea Express service connects Jeddah, Yanbu, Sokhna, and Aqaba — a new corridor strengthening regional trade and Saudi Arabia’s logistics ambitions. source AI for AP&SAfricaPorts & ShipsFolk Maritime has unveiled a new regional shipping service designed to strengthen trade flows across the Red Sea, connecting four key ports in Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Jordan. The Red Sea Express (RSX) service, introduced in June 2026, marks a significant step in Saudi Arabia’s drive to position itself as a global logistics hub. The service links Jeddah Islamic Port and King Fahd Industrial Port at Yanbu with Ain Sokhna in Egypt and Aqaba in Jordan, using vessels of around 1,100 TEU capacity. By offering direct sailings between these gateways, Folk Maritime aims to reduce waiting times, cut transportation costs, and provide exporters and importers with faster, more reliable access to regional markets. The initiative is supported by the Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) and SABIC, reflecting Riyadh’s broader strategy to diversify its economy and expand non‑oil exports. For Yanbu, the service offers a dedicated outlet for petrochemical and industrial cargo, while Jeddah consolidates its role as the Kingdom’s primary Red Sea hub. Ain Sokhna strengthens Egypt’s eastern Mediterranean trade corridor, and Aqaba positions itself as a northern gateway for Jordanian and regional distribution. Beyond operational efficiency, the RSX service carries strategic weight. It enhances supply chain resilience by reducing reliance on congested transshipment hubs, while also reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s ambition to become a pivotal connector between Europe, Africa, and Asia. For shippers, the service promises shorter transit times and more predictable schedules — critical advantages in today’s competitive logistics environment. Yet challenges remain. The Red Sea has been exposed to geopolitical risks, with shipping lanes affected by regional instability and conflict. At the same time, RSX’s modest vessel size means it will compete primarily in the feeder and regional trade segment, rather than long‑haul global routes. Success will depend on reliability, cost competitiveness, and the ability to attract consistent cargo flows. Still, the launch of RSX signals a ‘Red Sea renaissance in regional’ shipping. By linking Jeddah, Yanbu, Sokhna, and Aqaba, Folk Maritime is not only opening new corridors for trade but also reinforcing the Red Sea’s role as a vital artery in global commerce. For Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Jordan alike, the service represents a tangible step toward greater integration, efficiency, and resilience in maritime logistics. Added 22 June 2026♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦GENERAL NEWS REPORTSUpdated 24 Hours Per Dayin partnership with – APOMore Shipping News athttps://africaports. co. za/category/News/♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦Earlier News athttps://africaports. co. za/category/News/♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦TO ADVERTISE INRequest a Rate Card from[email protected]Port Louis – Indian Ocean gateway portAfricaPorts & Shipspublishes regularly updatedSHIP MOVEMENTreports including ETAs for ports extending from West Africa to South Africa to East Africa and including Port Louis in Mauritius. In the case of South Africa’s container ports of Durban, Ngqura, Ports Elizabeth and Cape Town links to container Stack Dates are also available. You can access this information, including the list of ports covered, byCLICKING HEREremember to use your BACKSPACE to return to this page. News continues belowCRUISE NEWS AND NAVAL ACTIVITIESQM2 in Cape Town. Picture by late Ian ShiffmanWe publish news about thecruise industryhere in the general news section. Naval NewsSimilarly you can read our regularNaval Newsreports and stories here in the general news section. ♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♠♠♠ADVERTISINGFor a Rate Card please contact us at[email protected]Don’t forget to send us your news and press releases for inclusion in the News Bulletins. Shipping related pictures submitted by readers are always welcome. Email to[email protected]South African Ports:Total cargo handled by tonnes during May 2026, including containers by eightMysee full report for the latest month and year in the news sectionPORTMay 2026 – million tonnesRichards Bay7. 010Durban7. 055Saldanha Bay4. 381Cape Town1. 351Port Elizabeth0. 970Ngqura1. 309Mossel Bay0. 001East London0. 136Total all ports during May 202622. 243million tonnes=================

Source: africaports.co.za