Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) on July 7 unveiled a R120-million new locally built multi-purpose vessel, which the entity says is a crucial addition to its marine fleet at the Port of Cape Town.

TNPA adds that this development marks another significant milestone in the execution of its ongoing Marine Fleet Renewal Programme, which aims to increase the availability of the marine fleet at South Africa’s commercial seaports.

Built by Damen Shipyards Cape Town, the multi-purpose vessel is a multi-functional seagoing craft designed to support maintenance activities and enhance environmental management, including pollution control and oil spill response, within the port.

The vessel is designed to remove debris, conduct maintenance dredging and perform quay‑wall repairs.

Additionally, it will assist in lighthouse maintenance and carry out upkeep tasks such as fender replacement and minor dredging activities.

During a christening ceremony held at the Shipyard, TNPA named and christened the vessel Yarona, a Setswana name which means “Ours”. The name was chosen by a TNPA employee through an internal competition.

“At the heart of our Reinvent for Growth Strategy is infrastructure-led growth and a commitment to reliable and efficient operations across our operations. As Transnet, we remain focused in modernising our fleet and ensure fit-for-purpose infrastructure in order to meet the needs of our customers and the broader South African economy,” Transnet Group COO Solly Letsoalo said, speaking at the ceremony.

Measuring 19.05 m in length with a beam of 8.36 m, the vessel features an all-welded steel hull and superstructure for enhanced durability in harsh harbour conditions.

This is expected to engender quicker and effective response when called upon by port users to remove navigation hazards.

“Our ability to deliver this vessel is testament to our mission of building vessels in Africa for Africa. It underscores our commitment to localisation and supplier development, while contributing to job creation and skills development in the local maritime sector.

“The project has equally been beneficial to both men and women, with a strong focus on individuals from previously disadvantaged communities and with youth well-represented among the team,” said Damen Shipyards Cape Town director Sefale Montsi.

During the 14-month construction period, the project created about 18 job opportunities for the community.

Once operational, the multi-purpose vessel will employ three new crew members from TNPA, in addition to the two crew members who were aboard the old vessel.