South Africa’s premier bulk port, the Port of Richards Bay, is commemorating its fortieth anniversary this month.

Over the past 40 years, the port had expanded to enable the export of various commodities, as well as increased its export capacity.

Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) CE Richard Vallihu said the landmark year for the port served as an indicator of the economic growth opportunities available to Richards Bay and South Africa as a whole.

“When you consider that this area was once seen as . . . lacking in potential as a harbour, the rise of the port and the town as a whole becomes that much more remarkable.

“The success of the Port of Richards Bay over [the] past 40 years demonstrates the capabilities of the country and our ports in providing a system of growth that is beneficial to the surrounding communities, promoting careers and business opportunities in the maritime industry,” he said.

The Port of Richards Bay was initially created for the purpose of transporting locally mined coal to international shores.

However, it now exports a diverse mix of commodities including magnetite, chrome ore, alumina, coking coal and ferroalloys, while still delivering its main line export of coal.

The port’s establishment in 1976 has led to the development of other industries within Richards Bay, providing thousands of direct and indirect job opportunities for the people of the city and, in turn, transforming the small fishing village into an industrial hub, while supporting big businesses such as the Richards Bay Coal Terminal, BHP Billiton, Richards Bay Minerals and Foskor.

The port demonstrated its role as one of the country’s leading ports during 2010/11, when it increased its revenue generation, breaking the R1-billion turnover mark for the first time in its history.

During the 2015/16 financial year, the port handled 99.23-million tons of bulk and break bulk cargo.

In addition, the port’s 23 berths, specialised cargo handling facilities, fast vessel turnaround, deep-water infrastructure, rail links to the hinterland and its large greenfield development potential, have made the Port of Richards Bay one of the world’s leading bulk ports.

Richards Bay port manager Preston Khomo said the achievements of the port showcased the key value of working together to build the standing of an entire community.

“The continued success of the Port of Richards Bay will be dependent on partnerships with business and the community, and we see this landmark anniversary as a means through which these relationships can be strengthened.”

Future planning at the port is in line with government’s National Growth Plan, and in particular the Operation Phakisa ocean economy initiative, which was primarily focused on economic development, job creation and skills development.

As part of the port’s anniversary celebrations, TNPA had planned a host of events to mark the occasion. This would include community inclusive events, as well as exclusive celebratory occasions for dignitaries and principals of industries.