The Coega Development Corporation (CDC) has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) inviting capable and competent service providers with proven experience and track record to submit proposals for the development of a New Manganese Export Terminal (NMET) at the Port of Ngqura, in Gqeberha, in the Eastern Cape.

“The primary objective of this project is to provide world-class end-to-end services to the manganese Sector in South Africa through ensuring that there is a reliable, efficient and cost-effective bulk materials handling facility and impeccable export services at the Port of Ngqura,” the CDC said on Monday.

The Request for Proposal follows the announcement by Transnet SOC Ltd on 9 June 2021 that the Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has appointed the CDC as the implementing agent of choice for the relocation of the manganese terminal and the Liquid Bulk Terminal from the Port of Port Elizabeth to the Port of Ngqura.

This relationship between Transnet and the CDC is consistent with the objective of government to leverage areas of excellence to increase the capacity of the State to deliver.

The project is expected to contribute towards the much-needed economic development of the country.

“Our partnership with Transnet seeks to fast-track infrastructure delivery for the benefit of the country, given the importance of logistics as an enabler of economic development which is needed especially – amid the COVID-19 pandemic.  As far as Coega is concerned, we see the development of a new Manganese Export Terminal at the Port of Ngqura as contributing towards sustainable and inclusive growth,” CDC Executive Manager for Infrastructure Planning and Development Dr Mpumi Mabula said.

The project will unlock significant investment in the mining sector through improvement in logistics infrastructure and services, and this development is therefore very critical in advancing government’s objectives as set out in the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan.

The NMET seeks to have facilities that meet the best environmental standards, with a focus also on near-zero dust emissions, and zero impact on the groundwater, and other natural resources. The required technical solution is for a covered or enclosed manganese stockyard.

“We are moving away from an open stockyard solution for environmental sustainability and world-class best practices,” Mabula said.

Source: South African Government News Agency