More ships for Namibian ports

Increase in cargo handling at Namibian ports

NAMIBIA: The number of vessels calling at Namibian ports surged by 29% in the financial year ending 31 March with port visits jumping from 1,636 to 2,115 calls. These included foreign tugs, dry bulk vessels, containerised vessels, foreign fishing vessels, petroleum vessels, Namibian fishing vessels, research, and general vessels.

In addition, the ports posted record breaking cargo handling levels over this period. According to the Namibian Ports Authority (Namport), frozen fish and marble are two export commodities contributing the most to these figures.

Cargo handled increased from 7.7 million tons to 8 million tonnes during the financial year ending on 31 March 2024 – representing a four per cent improvement on the previous financial year.

Frozen Fish surged by 29% while marble reportedly jumped by 41%. Further increases were seen inbulk salt (10%), copper concentrate (12%) and manganese ore (15.7%)

Imports also showed some increases. Most notable was the substantial 26% increase in the importation of petroleum. Other imported commodities also experienced noteworthy growth, including copper concentrate, ammonium nitrate, wheat, ships spares, and steel. Overall, the Authority recorded a 7.9% increase in the importation of goods in comparison to the previous financial year.

The financial year under review also recorded an increased occupancy rate of Syncrolift facilities. The repair jetties’ occupancy rose from 64% to 96%, while bay occupancy lagged at 47% compared to 52% in the previous financial year.