Multi-million rand transformation plans for the Port of Mossed Bay have been outlined by The Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) at the leadership engagement roadshow on 21 -22 August in Mossed Bay.
The development of the Port includes the creation of a mixed-use waterfront, a dock for cruise line passengers and other business opportunities.
Chief Executive of TNPA, Shulami Qalinge, announced that the developments intend to increase the economic growth of South Africa’s smallest commercial port and the Garden Route region along with increasing job opportunities for the local community.
“We are pleased to be moving forward with the Mossel Bay Waterfront to make the Port of Mossel Bay an even bigger attraction on this beautiful coastline, with a mixed-use waterfront that could include retail, commercial and industrial facilities,” Qalinge said.
The implementation of a cruise terminal would provide tourists who visit the Garden Route coastline by boat a first-class experience.
“A bit further down the track, we have in our sights a facility that will enable cruise passengers to disembark directly onto the quayside, instead of arriving by ferry,” she explained.
TNPA is hopeful that this development will increase tourism to the coastal town and expose the world to its beauty.
“Such a development would help to ensure the port provides a world-class experience for the tourists who arrive by cruise ship in the Garden Route,” Qalinge said.
In an effort to support the local fishing industry as part of South African government’s Operation Phakisa, focusing on the Oceans Economy Programme, TNPA is planning to introduce a slipway for the port.
In partnership with Petro SA, the national oil company of the country, TNPA and Petro SA Centre for Excellence will train 14 learners from disadvantaged communities in the Eden District Municipality.
These learners will be given the tools to become welders, boilermakers, fitters and turners in an effort to increase skills development in the area.
The plans for the waterfront transformation are a go-ahead and will encourage both international and local tourists to visit the quaint coastal town of Mossed Bay.
Pics from the stakeholder breakfast held during our Leadership Team’s a two-day engagement roadshow this week in Mossel Bay, where we engaged with customers, industry, local business, government representatives and the media on strategic port developments pic.twitter.com/ckT4EZsAvj
— Transnet NPA (@TransnetNPA) August 23, 2018
Picture: Twitter