South Africa’s Minister of Finance, Enoch Godongwana, has unveiled a significant investment plan to improve the country’s transport and logistics sectors. Under the 2025 budget, the government has allocated R402 billion for infrastructure projects that will enhance road networks, rail services, and logistics efficiency. The move is aimed at addressing long-standing issues in the sector and boosting economic growth.

A key portion of this budget is directed toward the South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL), which is set to receive R100 billion over the medium term. This funding will ensure that the national road network remains in good condition, facilitating smoother transportation of goods and people across the country. Well-maintained roads are essential for economic activity, particularly for businesses relying on efficient logistics to remain competitive.

Another major recipient of the budget allocation is the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA). The agency has been working to rebuild its infrastructure and improve rail services, particularly for low-income commuters. The government has provisionally allocated an additional R19.2 billion over the medium term to upgrade critical railway signalling systems. These improvements will allow PRASA to increase train frequency in key areas such as Mamelodi, Kwa-Mashu, Motherwell, and Khayelitsha. With the ability to dispatch trains every 10 minutes, the initiative aims to provide affordable, efficient transport for commuters while reducing household transportation costs.

Furthermore, the allocation will support PRASA’s rolling stock renewal programme, which has already delivered 241 new trains. These modern trains will enhance passenger capacity and improve reliability. However, despite these advancements, PRASA has faced challenges in its procurement processes. To address this, management has implemented measures to strengthen the system with support from the National Treasury. The introduction of live audits for major procurement projects is one of the key strategies to mitigate risks and ensure accountability.

While PRASA focuses on improving passenger rail services, Transnet, South Africa’s state-owned freight logistics company, is also undergoing a major recovery plan. Transnet has experienced financial and operational difficulties, with rail volumes declining from 226.3 million tonnes in 2017/18 to 151.7 million tonnes in 2023/24. The decline has been attributed to derailments, inefficiencies, and infrastructure damage. However, recovery efforts are beginning to yield results, with projections indicating that rail volumes will reach 165.4 million tonnes by the end of 2024/25.

Despite these positive developments, Transnet continues to struggle financially. In 2023/24, the company reported a net loss of R7.3 billion, up from R5.1 billion in the previous year. Rising finance costs, driven by increased borrowing and high interest rates, contributed to the losses. Transnet’s total finance costs reached R14.3 billion in 2023/24, adding strain to its already challenged cash flow. Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA) also declined from R22.8 billion in 2022/23 to R22 billion, as rising operational expenses offset revenue gains.

To stabilise its financial position, Transnet has shifted funds from capital expenditure to debt servicing since 2018. In December 2023, the government provided a R47 billion guarantee, allowing Transnet to refinance maturing debt and secure new funding. However, the government has ruled out additional debt relief or general balance sheet support. Instead, direct investments are being made in critical infrastructure projects, including the expansion of the land-side container terminal in Cape Town.

As borrowing continues to rise, with total debt increasing by R7.6 billion to R137.7 billion between March 2023 and March 2024, effective debt management remains a priority for Transnet. The government’s intervention aims to strengthen the logistics sector while ensuring long-term financial sustainability.

The 2025 budget reflects the government’s commitment to revitalising South Africa’s transport and logistics sectors. With substantial investments in roads, rail infrastructure, and freight logistics, the plan is expected to improve efficiency, support economic growth, and enhance the quality of transport services for citizens.

Botswana Railways (BR) and Korea Railroad Corporation (KORAIL) have officially signed a strategic alliance for improving railway services and infrastructure in Botswana. The two rail companies signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the Botswana Railways Station in Gaborone. The alliance is intended to improve cooperation, sharing of technical expertise, and capacity building between the two companies, further improving Botswana’s railway sector.

The signing ceremony was attended by Botswana Railways and Korea Railroad Corporation senior officials, together with the South Korean delegation and representatives of the Botswana government. The signing is seen as an important milestone in increasing railway performance, upgrading the infrastructure, and improving overall transport services in Botswana.

One of the greatest benefits of the MOU is the potential for technical exchange and training programs. Botswana Railways employees will be trained by KORAIL experts in existing railway operations, safety standards, and maintenance procedures. This will enhance the quality of BR employees’ expertise and knowledge so that they can operate the railway infrastructure and provide better services to passengers and freight companies more efficiently.

In addition, advisory services for rail operation and maintenance are included in the deal. Since KORAIL has a rich experience in running South Korea’s developed rail network, Botswana Railways will gain from advisory services regarding increasing train operations, track maintenance, and railway management systems from seasoned professionals. These advisory services will make Botswana’s rail network more efficient and reliable.

Transfer of railway development knowledge is also a critical component of the cooperation. Botswana Railways intends to develop and expand its railway network, and cooperation with KORAIL will learn it about how to deploy high-speed railways, utilize digital technology, and rationalize railway logistics. By learning from the successful railway system of South Korea, Botswana Railways plans to construct a more competitive and sustainable railway system.

Following the signing ceremony, the Korean delegation was conducted on a tour of facilities of Botswana Railways to acquaint themselves with its operations and infrastructure. The tour provided both sides with an opportunity to scan areas of improvement and suggest how best practices from KORAIL’s experience could be applied.

This MOU is a new milestone for Botswana Railways in that it seeks to upgrade its railway services and enhance its operational efficiency. Rail transportation is a major component of the economy of Botswana, facilitating trade and connectivity within Botswana and the region. The partnership with KORAIL is set to improve BR’s capacity to facilitate economic growth through an improved rail system.

For Korea Railroad Corporation, the deal is in line with its mission to diversify international cooperation and export South Korea’s experience of railway management to the rest of the world. Through this cooperation with Botswana Railways, KORAIL contributes to global railway development and consolidates South Korea-Botswana bilateral relations.

As the cooperation continues, Botswana Railways and KORAIL will work closely together to implement the agreed-upon initiatives so that the partnership yields real benefits to Botswana’s railway sector. The sharing of knowledge, technology, and expertise will play a crucial role in transforming Botswana’s rail transport system to be more efficient, safer, and sustainable for future generations.

The global logistics industry is witnessing another shift in regulatory compliance as the United Arab Emirates moves forward with implementing its Maritime Pre-Load Cargo Information (MPCI) Program. Set to take effect on June 25, this new security filing regulation aims to enhance cargo security and streamline global supply chains. With trade volumes increasing and security concerns mounting, the UAE’s initiative aligns with broader international efforts to tighten cargo monitoring and pre-loading security protocols.

Trade Tech, a leader in digital freight and logistics solutions, has been proactive in ensuring compliance with the UAE’s upcoming requirements. With extensive experience in managing global trade regulations, the company is leveraging its technology-driven approach to help clients meet the new security demands seamlessly.

Understanding the UAE’s MPCI Program
The UAE’s Maritime Pre-Load Cargo Information Program is a comprehensive initiative designed to enhance national security and ensure greater visibility into cargo movements. Under this regulation, shippers and freight forwarders must submit detailed cargo information before loading shipments bound for the UAE.

Pre-loading security filings will allow UAE authorities to assess the security risk of each shipment in advance. Non-compliance could result in shipment delays, penalties, or even rejection at UAE ports. The program follows similar frameworks such as the U.S. Importer Security Filing (ISF) and the European Union’s Entry Summary Declaration (ENS), reinforcing international efforts to standardize cargo security measures.

Key Requirements of the UAE’s MPCI Program
Electronic cargo data (Bill of Lading details) must be submitted at least 24 hours before loading at the origin.

Mandatory declarations are required from Master Vessel Operators, Freight Forwarders, Master Loaders, and Co-Loaders.

Forwarders must accurately report the actual shipper and consignee in their filings.

Master Vessel Operators must verify forwarder declarations before loading cargo.

Filers must update transshipment details, including the actual vessel name and departure date.

Declarations are required for cargo destined for the UAE, transshipment cargo, and stay-on-board cargo.these evolving requirements with confidence, maintaining smooth operations while meeting international security standards.

Trade Tech is expected to expand its regulatory compliance capabilities to accommodate similar programs in other countries. The increasing reliance on automated compliance tools and artificial intelligence will further streamline security filings and risk assessments.

Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport is advancing automation and sustainability efforts. To achieve this, it is deploying autonomous baggage handling technology. In collaboration with KLM and Aurrigo International plc, Schiphol is testing the Auto-DollyTug®, a self-driving electric baggage vehicle designed to optimize baggage separation and streamline airport logistics. With thousands of transfer bags passing through Schiphol each day, the introduction of autonomous solutions aims to relieve pressure on baggage handling systems, enhance efficiency, and support the airport’s vision of a fully connected, emission-free ground operation.

The use of self-driving baggage vehicles aligns with the broader aviation industry’s push for automation, reducing human labor demands while ensuring precise and timely baggage transfers. Schiphol’s ongoing trials will determine how effectively the Auto-DollyTug® can integrate into its existing infrastructure, potentially setting a precedent for airports worldwide.

Current baggage handling challenges
Schiphol Airport handles approximately 31,000 pieces of transfer baggage daily, with peak activity concentrated in the morning hours. This high volume places immense pressure on baggage processing systems, often leading to bottlenecks that can affect efficiency and timely connections. Ensuring that bags with long layovers are correctly separated and securely stored for later flights is a logistical challenge that requires continuous monitoring and optimization.

Traditional baggage transportation methods rely heavily on human-operated vehicles and manual processes, which can lead to inefficiencies, delays, and increased operational costs. With global air travel expected to continue growing, airports must adopt innovative solutions to manage baggage streams effectively while minimizing environmental impact.

The Auto-DollyTug®: Features and capabilities
The Auto-DollyTug® is an all-electric, self-driving baggage transport vehicle designed by Aurrigo International plc. This cutting-edge vehicle is equipped with LiDAR sensors and 360-degree cameras, enabling it to navigate safely through complex airport environments. Unlike traditional baggage carts, the Auto-DollyTug® can autonomously pick up, transport, and deliver baggage to designated storage areas and processing points.

The vehicle operates with a high degree of precision, automatically adjusting to traffic conditions and maintaining safe distances from other airport vehicles and personnel. Its electric-powered system contributes to Schiphol’s broader sustainability goals, reducing reliance on fossil-fuel-powered ground support equipment. Additionally, its autonomous functions help optimize baggage flows, ensuring that transfer luggage reaches its next flight on time while minimizing human intervention.

Trial phases and progress
Schiphol’s first phase of testing for the Auto-DollyTug® began in August last year. Initial trials focused on transporting baggage from temporary storage locations to secure holding areas, with the vehicle mapping the airport’s platform environment using advanced 3D cameras. As the trials progressed, the Auto-DollyTug® demonstrated its ability to autonomously navigate the complex airside environment, successfully picking up and dropping off baggage containers.

Currently, the vehicle is undergoing further testing on the airport’s pier, an area with increased traffic density and operational challenges. If these trials prove successful, Schiphol plans to expand the vehicle’s operational routes, eventually incorporating aircraft stand operations by the end of 2025. Throughout the trials, a human operator remains present in the vehicle to intervene if necessary, ensuring safety and compliance with aviation regulations.

Industry leaders recognize the potential of autonomous technology in transforming baggage handling and ground operations. Jan Zekveld, Senior Manager of Innovation at Royal Schiphol Group, highlights the importance of automation in achieving a sustainable airport environment, stating that the integration of emission-free autonomous vehicles is a critical step toward Schiphol’s long-term goals.

Similarly, Professor David Keene, CEO of Aurrigo International plc, emphasizes the benefits of self-driving baggage solutions in reducing operational pressures. “Working with forward-thinking partners like Schiphol and KLM to bring autonomous solutions to real-world aviation challenges is very exciting,” he noted. “The work we are doing demonstrates a fantastic use case for our self-driving Auto-DollyTug®, showcasing how automation can enhance efficiency while supporting the workload for baggage handlers and easing pressure on airport systems.”

As the trials progress, Schiphol’s success in integrating autonomous baggage handling vehicles could inspire other airports to follow suit.

Inclement weather delays at the Port of Cape Town, compounded by the state-owned port and rail operator’s recovery from wind disruption, have forced Maersk to make significant adjustments to its shipping schedules.

Over the past weekend, The Cape Independent reported that the Danish line had alerted customers to excessive waiting times at the port, with delays of eight to ten days becoming increasingly common.

Because of anchorage idling, Maersk has said the One Responsibility, a vessel operating on the SA-Europe Container Service (SAECS) in collaboration with Hapag-Lloyd and Ocean Network Express, will bypass Cape Town altogether.

Previously set to berth at port, the 7 098-TEU vessel will be heading to Durban.

Meanwhile, the One Resolution remains anchored off Cape Town after arriving on Sunday, while the Santa Isabel has been at anchorage since March 6.

It is understood that another vessel, the Santa Clara, is en route from Durban and expected to arrive soon, adding to the building backlog at the port.

Vessel tracking data reveals the ripple effects that delays at Cape Town are having on ships scheduled to call at the port.

On the India-Middle East-Africa Mesawa service, operated by Maersk and CMA CGM, vessels such as the Maersk Iyo have been rerouted to Ngqura to maintain schedule integrity.

Export bookings from Cape Town will be reassigned to the Maersk Cubango, while import containers from Ngqura will be redirected to their intended destinations.

The Cape Independent reported that, apart from being regularly windbound, port operations were being hindered by a combination of factors, including equipment failures and resource shortages.

The South African Association of Freight Forwarders (Saaff) identified strong winds as the primary constraint last week, alongside ongoing dredging and logistical inefficiencies.

Between 3 and 9 March, the port handled 18 195 TEUs, but Saaff forecasts a 19% drop in throughput to 14 793 TEUs for the following week.

Criticism has mounted against Transnet, the state-owned operator of the Cape Town Container Terminal, for chronic underinvestment in South Africa’s logistics infrastructure. This neglect has left ports poorly equipped to handle growing demand or adapt to adverse conditions.

In last year’s Container Port Performance Index (CPPI), issued by the World Bank, the Port of Cape Town was listed as one of the worst-performing ports in the world, based on container-handling data.

But various stakeholders, from both the private and public sectors, including executives at Saaff, slated the CPPI for making apples-and-pears comparisons, with benchmark figures recorded by top-performing ports like Yangshan (China), Salalah (Oman) and Cartagena (Columbia).

However, in separate research conducted by Linerlytica, the ocean trade platform’s Port Congestion Watch found that Cape Town Container Terminal (CTCT) has a queue-to-berth ratio of 0.78, highlighting the systemic challenges facing South Africa’s maritime logistics sector.

Cooper Consolidated, LLC has announced the expansion of its bulk stevedoring fleet with the addition of two 4000C Series Equilibrium Cranes, the largest cranes ever built by E-Crane. These cranes, named “Pelican” and “Creole King,” reinforce the company’s position as the leading bulk stevedoring service provider on the Mississippi River. This development highlights key innovations in bulk cargo handling that could benefit African port operators seeking to enhance efficiency and capacity.

“Cooper Consolidated is constantly aiming to provide our customers with the highest quality of service and the most efficient cargo handling,” said Chris Blanchard, Executive Director of Cooper Consolidated, LLC. “The addition of North America’s largest E-Cranes to our fleet helps us continue to meet our high standards and exceed our customers’ expectations.”

The deployment of high-capacity equilibrium cranes is a significant technological advancement for bulk and breakbulk handling. These cranes offer reduced maintenance, extended component life, and improved energy efficiency—critical factors for ports in Africa aiming to modernize their infrastructure while minimizing operational costs.

Each crane is mounted on newly built barges measuring 200’ x 72’ x 12’, constructed in 2024 at Corn Island Shipyard in Grandview, Indiana. The floating crane solution allows for greater flexibility in cargo handling, which is particularly relevant for African ports with evolving infrastructure and increasing cargo demands.

“The decision to bring the largest E-Cranes to the Mississippi River was a collaborative effort between the E-Crane and Cooper Consolidated teams and continues our tradition of adding unique assets to our operations that offer value for our customers,” said Billy Fitzpatrick, Managing Director of Sales and Stevedoring at Cooper Consolidated, LLC.

The “Pelican” crane was commissioned in December 2024, and the “Creole King” is set to begin operations in May 2025. These cranes will facilitate efficient handling of various bulk commodities, including grain, minerals, and other critical cargoes—key sectors for Africa’s growing trade in bulk materials.

Cooper Consolidated’s operations span the Lower Mississippi River, covering New Orleans, Baton Rouge, South Louisiana, and Plaquemines. Its asset-backed stevedoring, barge, marine, and logistics services ensure reliability and flexibility, a model that could inspire similar developments in Africa’s rapidly expanding maritime trade sector.

With increasing investments in African ports, the implementation of advanced equilibrium cranes like those deployed by Cooper Consolidated presents an opportunity for African port operators to enhance operational efficiency, improve cargo throughput, and reduce environmental impact. As Africa continues to develop its maritime logistics network, lessons from North America’s bulk handling advancements can offer valuable insights into building a more resilient and modern port infrastructure.

The global container shipping industry is witnessing a major shift as Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd officially launched their Gemini Cooperation on February 1, 2024. This new vessel-sharing alliance replaces Maersk’s previous 2M partnership with MSC and is set to revolutionize shipping efficiency, boosting reliability to over 90% once fully operational.

A Powerful New Network
Gemini Cooperation will operate with an impressive fleet of 290 vessels at launch, offering a total capacity of 3.4 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEU). As the transition progresses, the network is expected to scale up to 340 vessels and 3.7 million TEU, making it a dominant force in global trade routes.

The new network will cover East-West trade routes, featuring:

29 mainliner services for intercontinental shipping.
28 intraregional shuttle services to enhance port connectivity.
A total of 57 global shipping services upon full implementation.
Optimized Efficiency with Hub-and-Spoke Model
One of the key advantages of the Gemini network is its hub-and-spoke strategy. This approach reduces the number of direct port calls for large mainline vessels, relying instead on high-capacity shuttle services to connect smaller ports.

Hapag-Lloyd CEO Rolf Habben Jansen highlighted that this model not only improves service reliability but also contributes to cutting emissions by optimizing ship speeds and reducing idle times.

Seamless Transition and Market Impact
With the 2M alliance officially dissolved, Gemini is expected to reach full operational capacity by June 2024. Maersk Ocean Chief Product Officer, Johan Sigsgaard, assured customers of a smooth transition, emphasizing greater flexibility and enhanced product offerings.

Meanwhile, Hapag-Lloyd’s exit from THE Alliance has led to a restructuring of global partnerships. According to gCaptain, Ocean Network Express (ONE), HMM, and Yang Ming Marine Transportation will form a new competing entity named Premier Alliance.

Routing Adjustments Amid Red Sea Disruptions
Due to security concerns in the Red Sea, Gemini Cooperation will reroute vessels via the Cape of Good Hope, a move that aligns with global trends prioritizing safety and supply chain stability.

What This Means for African Trade
✅ Increased connectivity for African ports through shuttle services. ✅ More efficient shipping operations, potentially reducing lead times for cargo handlers. ✅ Environmental benefits from optimized shipping routes and reduced emissions. ✅ Greater stability in global trade as Gemini seeks to set a new industry standard.

As Gemini Cooperation takes shape, African cargo handlers, port operators, and bulk shippers must stay informed to leverage the opportunities this historic alliance presents.

Stay tuned for further updates as the Gemini era reshapes global shipping!