Transnet private sector infrastructure development

Transnet is pursuing private sector participation to develop energy and mineral export infrastructure in South Africa’s Eastern Cape.

In mid-September, the Transnet National Ports Authority issued a request for proposals to attract private capital for a small- to medium-scale liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal at the Port of East London. The project involves a 25-year concession to design, finance, build, operate, and maintain the facility, after which ownership transfers to the authority. This follows a previous agreement for a regasification facility at the Port of Ngqura.

By late September, Transnet SOC Ltd expanded its private sector initiatives by issuing a Request for Qualification for the Ngqura Manganese Export Corridor (NMEC). This project seeks a strategic partner for a 25-year initiative to upgrade rail infrastructure from Hotazel to the Eastern Cape and construct a new manganese export terminal at the Port of Ngqura. The project, estimated to cost between 30 billion and 44 billion rand, aims to increase manganese rail exports by a forecasted 20% and reduce reliance on road transport.