The Port of East London has taken ownership of two new tugboats, marking the end of the Transnet National Ports Authority’s (TNPA’s) R1-billion marine fleet renewal programme, aimed at boosting tugboat availability and, thus, enhancing shipping operations at its facilities.

This renewal programme is a key element in Transnet’s ports recovery plan, with the tugs to provide marine services such as the safe navigation of vessels, as well as pilotage and towage, while they should also assist in combatting waterside pollution.

The two tugs were delivered by Damen Shipyards Cape Town (DSCT). They replace the existing tug fleet that has reached its operational lifespan at the East London port.

The vessels were built with an azimuth stern drive, and have an improved pollard pull of 60 t compared with 43 t on the existing tugs.

The procurement of the tugs forms part of the expansion programme at the Port of East London, says the TNPA.

This includes the long-awaited deepening and strengthening of the port’s automotive berth in order to address berthing challenges.

The concrete works on this project started in November last year.

Once completed, the port will be able to simultaneously berth two larger vessels, which should ensure increased volumes at the port.

Mercedes-Benz South Africa exports the C-Class passenger car through the Port of East London.

Also included in the river port’s expansion plan is the delivery in this financial year of two jib cranes for the port’s dry dock facility, which will increase capacity at this ship repair facility.

“The journey towards the full recovery of Transnet lies in our commitment to grow and invest in fit-for-purpose equipment,” says Transnet chairperson Andile Sangqu.

“The [tug boat] acquisition is a crucial investment towards creating a sustainable port system and will enable the execution of strategic projects currently underway at the Port of East London.”

At a christening ceremony for the new acquisitions, tug Lentswe – meaning the voice of sailors – was unveiled by TNPA board member Valda Gossmann in her role as the tug’s sponsor, while tug Kganya  – light, symbolising guidance in safe navigation of vessels – was christened by Transnet board member Boitumelo Sedupane.

The tugs’ names were selected through a competition among TNPA employees.

The two tugs are in addition to five tugs which were delivered at the Port of Durban in August.

“The vessels represent a substantial investment in our maritime infrastructure and will contribute to local job creation and skills development, as DSCT will provide all operational support, including spares, repairs, and services,” notes DSCT director Sefale Montsi.