Maritime Monthly News Roundup - November

MARITIME REVIEW AFRICA

NEWS ROUND-UP NOVEMBER 2019

EDUCATION & TRAINING

Collaborating for better maritime training SOUTH AFRICA: Delegates from three European universities were hosted this month in South Africa by local maritime departments in a benchmarking exercise that aims to better position the country for future maritime education and training.

Representatives from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT), Durban University of Technology (DUT) and Nelson Mandela University (NMU) travelled to Finland, Germany and the United Kingdom earlier this year as a precursor to this visit.

The collaboration between the universities is being undertaken within the Erasmus+ project (Erasmus+ Capacity Building in Higher Education) and links the three South African universities with Satakunta University of Applied Sciences (SAMK) in Finland, Hochschule Wismar University of Applied Sciences (HSW) in Germany and Solent University in the United Kingdom.

“This is primarily a benchmarking exercise for us,” says Sergio Giannotti of NMU. “Having already visited their facilities, this represents an opportunity for representatives of these partner institutes to see how we are tackling training locally,” he added.

Meeting the requirements of training under the STCW Convention and maintaining a position on the IMO White List as well as ensuring accreditation to the European Maritime Safety Authority standards, remains a priority for all the countries represented by the six universities.

“It is interesting to see how the different institutions are fulfilling the requirements of the Code as well as who is going beyond these requirements,” notes Giannotti who adds that the purpose is to learn from these outliers and engagements.

“There are different ways to fulfil different measures,” agrees Sauli Ahvenjärvi of SAMK who believes that collaborative exchanges that extend to sharing of useful information relating to the choice of training equipment will be of benefit to all.

“Wherever we may be in our own institutions, there is always an

opportunity to learn from other ways of doing things. It is encouraging to see how local institutions are adapting and working proactively to overcome barriers,” said Dr Carole Davis from Solent.

PEOPLE

Highlighting Finland’s dependence on the sea, Ahvenjärvi, says that they continue to attract at least 50 students a year into their deck officer and engine officer programmes. According to Gerrit Tuschling from HSW, a similar number of German students are being attracted into their seafarer programmes.

SOUTH AFRICA: Odwa Mtati has been appointed as CEO of the South African International Maritime Institute (SAIMI) after acting in this capacity since the departure of Malek Pourzanjani last year.

NMU, CPUT and DUT recently teamed up with other local maritime educators to establish the Maritime Academic Institution of South Africa (MAISA) which aims to unify the voice of maritime training providers and advocate for future-proof training of South African seafarers.

“This is a wonderful learning experience for us. The facilities we saw on our trips to Europe are extremely impressive and serve as an aspiration for us,” said Derek Lambert of CPUT who adds that the advent of MAISA will further help the universities pool resources as well as advocate for the approval of distance learning within the accredited maritime training ambit.

The Erasmus Plus Mobility project for higher education students and staff could be the next step for the six institutions to take part in.

SAIMI appoints permanent CEO

SAIMI is hosted at Nelson Mandela University, and works nationally with role players across a range of disciplines and sectors that make up the maritime economy. Mtati has been with SAIMI since its inception in 2014, fulfilling a range of strategic roles, which has provided him with the relevant experience in the broad-ranging mandate of the institute and the critical national importance of the maritime sector to the country, including different Operation Phakisa Oceans Economy Structures.

He brings a wealth of experience, having served as the former CEO of the Port Elizabeth Regional Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PERCCI) and Director and Owner of Jupilog Enterprise Development. He is also past chairperson of the Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism, Deputy Chairperson of the Eastern Cape Gambling Board and Chairperson of the Methodist Homes for the Aged and eZethu Development Trust and served on the Nelson Mandela ICT Incubator.

His career path spans the portfolio of Business Development Manager at Canon Eastern Cape; Director: Management Services in the Department of Correctional Services; Head of Marketing at Port Elizabeth Technikon and Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University and Student Counsellor at Vista University. Furthermore, he holds a Master’s Degree in Development Studies from Nelson Mandela University and a BJuris and BA from Vista University.

PUBLISHED BY: More Maximum Media PO BOX 3842 | Durbanville | 7550 | Cape Town | South Africa | Tel: +27 21 914 1157

BUNKERS

Algoa Bay to host first LNG bunkering opportunity for South Africa

PORTS

Maintenance dredging commences in Port of Cape Town SOUTH AFRICA: Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA)’s Dredging Services division has embarked on another maintenance dredging campaign at the Port of Cape Town to ensure the port provides safe navigational channels and berthing facilities for shipping.

Around 20,000m3 of sand and sediment is expected to be removed during the dredging exercise, which started on 28 October. It will restore the design depths leading from the basin to the berths as well as the berth areas alongside South East Quay in the basin. Dredging will also address localised high spots along the long quay in Duncan Dock The 4,500m3 Italeni grab hopper dredger and the Isandlwana trailing suction hopper dredger (TSHD) have been deployed for the exercise.

The two dredgers complement each other in that the TSHD is built for high speed sailing to the offshore disposal site while the Italeni

SOUTH AFRICA: DNG Energy has announced that they will commence with LNG bunkering in Algoa Bay by 2020 in a bid to drive South Africa’s growth as a major global force for LNG bunkering within the commercial shipping industry by leveraging on the continent’s abundance of naturall gas reserves.

Securing of the bunkering licence within Algoa Bay is a significant development for the company. It follows – in 2018 – the commissioning of South African Shipyards to build an 8,000 tonne LNG bunker barge to service the region. Scheduled to come online in 2020, it is the largest vessel by weight ever to be built on the African continent.

As part of DNG Energy’s wider LNG development strategy and five-year initiative launched in 2015, the company is investing more than $5 billion by 2020 in infrastructure programmes across South Africa, Nigeria and Mozambique, funded through a blend of owned and institutional infrastructure capital.

Creating thousands of jobs, it will also drive economic growth and sustainability within the regions and the industries it serves.

DNG Energy was founded in 2013 by Aldworth Mbalati. The company’s vision is to achieve energy security and stability with responsible and sustainable energy solutions for Africa. The 100 per cent black-owned African organisation is championing the use of LNG for maritime and road transport as an initial step in contributing to sustainable development, as well as pioneering a pan-African LNG supply network for the global market.

Aldworth Mbalati, Founder and CEO, DNG Energy, commented: “The shipping industry faces significant challenges in meeting global sulphur regulations from 2020, as well as ambitious decarbonisation and wider sustainability targets towards 2050. It is increasingly

improves the accuracy of the final dredged depths. Multi-beam bathymetric surveys will be conducted at regular intervals throughout the campaign to ensure that all areas within Duncan Dock are restored to their original design depths.

Dredging is specialised underwater excavation that helps to keep ports and harbours safe and navigable and is a critical aspect of port maintenance. Dredged material is pumped into the hopper and can be offloaded by discharging through conical bottom valves. The dredge material within Duncan Dock will be disposed of at the offshore disposal site. The use of the offshore disposal site has been approved by Department Environmental Affairs.

TNPA’s fleet renewal programme has boosted the dredging division’s capacity to aid the removal of approximately four million cubic meters of excess material from the seabed every year at the ports.

With the most modern equipment available in the specialised service industry, Dredging Services is able to not only meet the needs of the South African port system, but the needs of Southern Africa, helping other African countries grow their economies.

evident that LNG as a marine fuel has an important role to play on this pathway. As a major global maritime hub, the development of LNG bunkering infrastructure in Algoa Bay is therefore a natural step in expanding Africa’s LNG value chain, directly supporting the growth of LNG-fuelled shipping on multiple trade routes and delivering against the industry’s, as well as Africa’s, sustainability goals.”

Africa is an exciting frontier in the global natural gas sector. The African LNG market holds 7.1 per cent of proven global gas reserves and is expected to contribute nearly 10 per cent of global production growth through to 2024. Rovuma Offshore Area 1 Block (Area 1) in Mozambique is the single largest LNG project ever approved in Africa and one of the world’s biggest natural gas fields.

DNG Energy believes gas is the key to helping South Africa meet its increasing energy demands in a responsible way, as well as moving closer towards a decarbonised economy; reducing the country’s energy dependence, and introducing a much better priced and affordable fuel alternative.

Aldworth Mbalati continues: “LNG presents further advantages for South Africa as it bolsters its position as a global bunkering hub for international trade. The abundance of natural gas reserves on the African coast enables competitive pricing and reduces supply risks.

And from a physical bunkering perspective, as LNG simply vaporises if it escapes, it removes the risk of oil spills during ship-to-ship transfer.

LNG also emits zero sulphur oxides (SOx), virtually no harmful particulate matter emissions (PM), and 95 per cent less nitrogen oxides (NOx) than existing oil-based marine fuels, providing a major advantage in terms of improving air quality and human health in ports and coastal areas.”

EFFICIENT, EFFECTIVE AND COST EFFECTIVE SERVICES AND SOLUTIONS

SERVICES

ATLATECH AT TECH

z z z z z

Diving and Salvage Underwater Class Surveys Ship Repair and Maintenance High Pressure Fresh Water Washing Abrasive Blasting

TEL: 021 425 4414

|

z z z z z

Drydocking Services Airless Spraying/Coating Pumping Pollution Control Tank Cleaning

CELL: 082 567 4914/5 / 079 728 2901

SERVICES AND SOLUTIONS to the Shipping, Marine and Offshore Oil & Gas Industries |

EMAIL: info@atlatech.co.za

2 NOVEMBER 2019

www.atlatech.co.za

MARITIME REVIEW AFRICA PORTS

Maintaining port security compliance SOUTH AFRICA: South Africa’s eight commercial ports were recognised for maintaining compliance with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code during the Department of Transport’s sixth Annual Maritime Transport Security Indaba on Monday, 18 November in

Simon’s Town.

For a third consecutive time the Port of Richards Bay scored highest for upholding this global maritime regulation for the safety and security of ships, ports, cargo and crew.

The Port of Port Elizabeth placed second and Durban took third place.

The ISPS Code was implemented in 2004 by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO). It is a comprehensive set of measurements for international security prescribing responsibilities to the government authority, port authority, shipping

CompactClean

The Most Compact Ballast Water Management System on the Market!  The Smallest Footprint in Industry  Filter and UV unit in seawater resistant Nickel-Alu-Bronze  IMO Type Approval  USCG Type Approval  Patent Pending Highly Efficient UV Unit Design  Short Delivery Time  Easy Maintenance  No Salinity or Temperature Limitations  Down to UV-Transmission of just 42% - Also in US Territory!  100% Chemical Free Treatment

H: 2384 mm

CompactClean 340 m3/h System

LX W

187 8x1

166

MARINE & OFFSHORE

mm

INDUSTRY

OIL SPILL RESPONSE

DEFENCE & FUEL

UTILITY

Contact our local representative in South Africa for more information: Tel: +27 21 527 7040 Fax: +27 21 527 7050 Mobile: +27 82 550 4887 Email: larst@allsurvey.co.za Web: www.allsurvey.co.za

PROVEN TECHNOLOGY www.desmioceanguard.com

3 NOVEMBER 2019

companies and seafarers.

It ensures that preventative measures can be taken in the event that a threat is determined.

ISPS requires that the port authority provides assurance that all the facilities are protected from any kind of threats which might arise from both land and water. The assessment and review of the port security plan becomes an essential and integral part of developing, updating and implementing the plan.

TNPA’s Executive Manager for Port Security, Ernest Sigasa, said: “We are extremely proud that all South African ports continue to meet the prescribed security standards to be awarded the internationally recognised ISPS Code certificate. This informs visiting ships that our ports’ security is of the required standard, ensuring they conduct business in a safe and secure environment.”

He said all ports underwent a vigorous audit process over the past year and the certification and audit is conducted every five years by the Department of Transport.

“Any port that does not meet the stringent targets and strict regulations governed by the International Maritime Organisation would not be allowed to operate or to permit any international trade through their facilities,” he said.

TNPA works closely with government agencies, shipping companies, terminal operators, seafarers and the entire port community to ensure that its ports uphold the ISPS Code and protect the safety and security of all those who enter its ports. The port authority has various programmes in place to entrench a safety and security culture, including ISO certification programmes, safety talks and symposiums, the ZERO HARM initiative which aims to reduce disabling injuries in the ports, as well as general learnings from incidents that might have occurred in the past.

ABOVE: Port Security Managers Dering Joyce (Richards Bay – 1st place), Nelson Masophi (PE – 2nd place) and Mdu Ndlovu (Durban – 3rd place).

Services FISHING

Maritime Training

Consulting

Risk Management & Compliance Audits

Crew Resource Management

Career Development

Maritime Community Development Fund

Transport & Accommodation

E Learning

We SERVE and SUPPORT individuals and companies so that they may THRIVE and GROW…

Email: Website: Tel: Tel:

sales@sstg.co.za www.sstg.co.za

Chambermaid to chief engineer SOUTH AFRICA: This month marked World Fisheries Day around the globe as the industry attempts to highlight the importance of the sector that produces around 80 million tons of food and employs at least 40 million people. Someone who has personal experience of the opportunities that exist in fishing is Lucinda Krige, the first woman to qualify as a chief engineer in the South African fishing industry.

Krige was working as a chambermaid in a Cape Town hotel when she read of an opportunity to train at sea as an engineering cadet. Knowing that this was her chance to achieve a lifelong ambition of working as an engineer, Krige applied for the position. “l didn’t know much about life at sea – I’m the first in my family to work in the fishing industry – but I applied, I got the job and when I got into Sea Harvest and I got to know what marine engineering is all about, I discovered this is actually the career I was looking for and I didn’t even know it,” she says.

Chief engineers are responsible for the operation and maintenance of the main propulsion, marine systems and machinery on board a fishing vessel, including the main engines, auxiliary engines, the refrigeration and steering systems, as well as the processing equipment in the onboard fish factory.

“The vessels are technologically so advanced,” explains Krige, “there’s a lot of electronics behind the scenes that aid with navigation and trawling, and that is something that you also need to maintain and accommodate”.

It took Krige five years of theoretical training and work

+27 22 742 1297

4

+27 86 137 0206

NOVEMBER 2019

experience to secure a chief engineer’s qualification. On almost every ship she sailed she was the only woman on board and she says she received phenomenal tuition, support and encouragement from her male colleagues, especially the engineers, skippers and mates she worked with.

“Working in a male-dominated environment wasn’t intimidating to me. I just slotted in,” she recalls.

Today, 11 years after qualifying as a chief engineer, Krige has swopped her engineer’s overalls for a shore-based job in the learning and development department at Sea Harvest’s Saldanha Bay plant.

She is responsible for maritime and technical training for Sea Harvest employees, as well as the training of approximately 40 apprentices.

“With my engineering background, I just hit the ground running when it came to learning and development because the fields that I’m responsible for now are actually just an extension of the work I did at sea,” she says.

Krige strongly encourages young people who want to follow a career in engineering to consider marine engineering because it encompasses such a broad spectrum of disciplines – from mechanical to electrical engineering, hydraulics and pneumatics and electronics.

“It is my privilege to tell people about the amazing scope for career progression that exists in the fishing industry,” she says.

Sea Harvest is one of 33 companies active in the South African deep-sea trawling industry which produces sustainable, Marine Stewardship Council-certified hake for local and export markets. The fishery provides 7 300 good jobs with regular wages and employee benefits, and delivers R6.7 billion to the South African economy every year.

South African elected to chair IMCI Vanessa Davidson of South Africa was elected as chairperson of the International Marine Certification Institute (IMCI) at their AGM this month. IMCI is a CE certifier under the 2013-35-EU Directive on recreational craft.

Davidson is the Executive Manager of the South African Boat Building Export Council (SABBEX) based in Cape Town. She has worked for SABBEX and boating industry associations for the last 10 years. Prior to that she worked in the charter yacht industry internationally for five years, both as sea-going and shore-based crew.

She has represented the industry on numerous committees both in South Africa and internationally and she has extensive experience working in the non-profit sector, with a particular interest in training and skills development. In addition, Davidson holds an M Phil from the University of Cape Town.

Ulrich Heinemann, CEO of the IMCI, says: “I am pleased that Vanessa has accepted the election. She manages her association with extreme skill and has many years of international industry experience. IMCI needs her contribution especially in Africa and Asia.”

MARITIME REVIEW AFRICA South African takes over as head of IMO Assembly LONDON: South Africa has been elected to preside over the IMO Assembly at the 31 Session of the Assembly currently taking place in London. Ms. Nomatemba Tambo, High Commissioner of South Africa to the United Kingdom will take up the position of President of the Assembly. The Assembly is IMO’s the highest governing body. It is responsible for approving the work programme and budget; and determining financial arrangements and electing the IMO Council. The Assembly consists of all IMO Member States and meets once every two years.

PEOPLE & EVENTS

African Marine Solutions (AMSOL) is a specialist solutions provider and partner to clients who operate in marine environments. As a market leader, AMSOL is the only marine solutions provider in the region that is employee and management owned, and is a catalyst for economic empowerment and shared value creation. amsol.co.za

5 NOVEMBER 2019

Africa’s women trained in SAR MOROCCO: Twelve women from across Africa completed the International Maritime Rescue Federation’s basic maritime search and rescue training in Morocco which was hosted as part of its ongoing #WomenInSAR initiative.

The training was supported by the IMO and took place over three days, covering basic knowledge, a practical exercise and best practice training to enable the women to manage rescue missions in their home countries in the future.

Theresa Crossley, CEO IMRF says: “This course is part of our ongoing initiative to support and encourage #WomenInSAR wherever they are in the world. Launched earlier this year to echo the IMO’s theme for the year of empowering women, for too long, too many roles have been seen as ‘men’s roles’ but reality is very different.

“All around the world there are women across the maritime SAR sector, from the teenager playing a vital role in a lifeboat crew, to the female CEO planning, resourcing and delivering a nationwide maritime SAR service, offering real examples of exceptionally brave and highly skilled women in pivotal roles. I am sure that all of the women who attended this course will in time inspire many others around them.”

The course included classroom-based learning, a practical exercise on a rescue boat and a visit to the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre to understand operational coordination, the SAR hierarchy and different duties. It also covered all the duties and responsibilities of a Search and Rescue Coordinator as defined by the International Aeronautical and Maritime Search and Rescue Manual (IAMSAR), Volume I. The training seeks to address gender imbalance in maritime SAR. In many countries around the world, search and rescue is often still perceived to be a male task, but in fact there are many women in key roles.

Twelve women attended the course representing SAR organisations from Kenya, Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa, Mozambique, Cote D’Ivoire, Seychelles, Senegal and Morocco. It is hoped that in time, they might mentor and encourage other women to become maritime SAR professionals.

All the attendees have been presented with a certificate to mark their successful completion of the course and will join the IMRF’s #WomenInSAR network, which offers opportunities to share experience, ask questions and build a network of other women in similar situations around the world.

Worldwide, the Royal Yachting Association (RYA), and South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) to ensure the local training is on par with global standards, and approved by the Marine and Coastal Agency (MCA).

EDUCATION & TRAINING

Chef training According to Brett Nussey, who manages the Superyacht Culinary Academy, “This is an exclusive training programme, for qualified or aspiring chefs, who want to further their culinary careers on board superyachts or charter catamarans.

It is the only dedicated professional training facility of its kind, offering comprehensive practical, handson culinary training, theory and practical courses. Professional chefs will provide students with all the relevant training required to work and succeed in any yacht galley.”

Guests can hail from as far afield as Europe, the Middle East or America, so knowledge of different cuisines and cultures and dietary requirements is also important. What they all have in common is an expectation of a 5-star gourmet experience, so students have to raise the culinary bar.

New academy aims to meet the needs of the superyacht sector SOUTH AFRICA: Established as a partnership between the V&A Waterfront, the Superyacht Culinary Academy and the Ocean Star Sailing Academy, the Superyacht Training Academy was officially launched this month at a function in Cape Town.

The academy is dedicated to developing the essential skills required by the superyacht crew and is located in the Nautilus building on West Quay Road, overlooking the Waterfront’s Synchrolift dry dock on the one side, and close to the V&A Marina yacht basin on the other.

The interior of the Academy has been fitted out to resemble actual on-board facilities in scale and dimension. Students therefore become accustomed to working within the confined spaces of a real yacht. The training kitchen is also equipped just as a galley kitchen would be, and students learn to cook on induction which, for safety reasons, is preferred to gas on superyachts.

David Green, the V&A Waterfront’s CEO said, “Coastal cities around the world compete to attract superyachts because while the boats are in port they support tourism and local businesses with operational and leisure spending as well as providing a sought after spectacle in the harbour. Cape Town is also home to almost 70% of the local boat-building industry, sustaining technical skills required to service all types of ocean-going craft and driving the standards of excellence necessary to thrive in this sector.

“This answers the call from Government to accelerate the economic potential of the ocean economy through destination marketing, maritime skills training, job creation and stimulating the boat building

industry.

“The V&A Waterfront already nurtures an ecosystem that support all the requirements of the industry and we are already seeing growth in overall interest from superyacht owners. They look for new destinations and challenges and many newer superyachts are now built for exploration to places like Antarctica.

Cape Town is perfectly positioned midway between South America on the one side and New Zealand on the other, plus we are relatively closer to European markets than they are” said Green.

Explaining the need for a Superyacht Training Academy, Green said “This is another step in building and equipping facilities at the Waterfront to accommodate this industry. We would see many more superyachts visiting the city if the owners and captains know that well-trained local and international staff are available to them.”

Deckhand training Sea, sun and storms constantly take their toll on yachts, so deckhands are essential for maintaining them in immaculate condition.

The superyacht deckhand course includes basic seamanship training - on water and in the classroom – and the mandatory pre-requisite competency licences and courses.

The deckhand course is designed for those who have a minimal knowledge of superyacht care and maintenance. An additional option is to complete a yacht master’s certificate which will increase the chances of getting a job.

Steward training Stewards are provided with knowledge and practical skills. The 20-day training course includes food safety and hygiene training. It is a great introduction to the world of luxury, travel and hard work. The training will provide students with knowledge and practical skills such as food and wine pairing, silver service, detailing, housekeeping and flower arranging.

Loxton concluded, “The training does not limit students to yachts.

The skills they learn can also be applied across the broader marine and hospitality industries. We are also speaking with the V&A Waterfront to explore further opportunities, such as enhancing the skills of the students and using the catering facilities to provide meals for surrounding dockyard and office workers. By the time they finish their training, students should also be a valuable resource for the local hospitality industry or even to start up their own catering companies.

Training Training will focus on the three key entry points vital for a career in the industry, namely Chefs, Deckhands and Stewardesses. In addition to basic training in each segment, the Academy will also ensure that students are armed with their basic marine training and safety licences, without which they will not be employed on boats.

Stuart Loxton from Ocean Star Sailing Academy describes the superyacht industry as a triangle, “At one point you have the galley chef, at another you have deckhands, and at the third you have stewardesses to do the hosting. The three points are linked in the centre by mandatory licences and courses.”

The Academy is also working with International Yacht Training (IYT)

6 NOVEMBER 2019

FISHING

Octopus fishing suspension lifted SOUTH AFRICA: After consultations with the scientific community and stakeholders in the fishery, Environment, Forestry and Fisheries Minister Barbara Creecy approved the lifting of the temporary suspension of the exploratory octopus fishery in False Bay, with effect from 15 November 2019.

The department had placed a temporary ban on the fishery at the end of June, following concerns over entanglements and mortalities of whales in octopus fishing gear.

“The bulk of the consultation focused on gear configurations and possible improvements to reduce whale entanglements. Amongst the mitigation measures that were explored were special sinking lines with extra weights, acoustic release buoys or time release buoys to minimise the need for vertical lines,” Creecy said.

Implementation of mitigation measures The lifting of temporary suspension is subject to the immediate implementation of mitigation measures that include: The bottom line should consist of entirely of sinking ropes; The chain on the buoy line must be moved from the top of the line to the bottom; There must be sheathing of the top 2 metres of the buoy line with PVC piping/tubing; and The buoy must be mounted on the bottom with a timed released mechanisms.

The working group also recommended that within three months should there be two or more entanglements of the southern right whale or the humpback whale, the fishery should be halted or terminated.

Furthermore, should there be at least one entanglement of the bryde’s whale, the fishery should be terminated or halted. Should there be at least one mortality of any of these whales, the fishery will be terminated.

Creecy said the department is looking at introducing mitigation measures on other fishing gear that has resulted in whales entanglements and/or mortalities.

“It is imperative that this fishery and all the parties involved do everything possible to ensure, not only the success of the fishery, but also the wellbeing of the environment in which the fishery operates,” Creecy said.

MARITIME REVIEW AFRICA Kingdom, South Africa’s Minister of Transport hosted a special reception for members of the diplomatic community from different countries.

BRIEFS

Transport Minister hosts ambassadors ahead of IMO General Assembly

commenced early this year.

The country’s re-election campaign has been led by the Department of Transport under the leadership of Minister Fikile Mbalula.

The reception will give the country an opportunity to interact with different countries about South Africa’s intension to be re-elected to the Council of the IMO as the Department of Transport wraps up the re-election campaign which

SOUTH AFRICA: With plans to contest a seat in the Council of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) at the 31st IMO Regular Session to be held from November 25th November to the 4th of December 2019 in London, United

Representing maritime talent from Namibia NAMIBIA: Earlier this month, Namport’s Carol Jaimy Schroeder not only added a new qualification

24 HOUR

of Master of Science in Maritime Affairs specialising in Maritime Law and Policy at the World Maritime University to her wall, but she graduated with distinction and also walked away with the much-coveted Chancellor’s Medal for Academic Excellence. Schroeder, who joined the World Maritime University (WMU) situated in Malmö, Sweden 14 months ago, also took up other leadership positions at the University such as leading the WMU Women’s Association that is recognised by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) as well as holding the position of Chairperson of Court of Honour of the WMU Student Council.

Hydrographic cooperation between India and Mauritius

+27 83 658 2540

OFFSHORE MARITIME SERVICES

CAPE TOWN | PORT ELIZABETH

OFF PORT LIMITS LAUNCH SERVICES

Exceeding expectations | Exceeding industry standards Crane equipped launches offer 24-hour year-round exclusive bay, harbour and off-port limit services.

Offshore Maritime Services cc Tel: +27 21 425 3372 launch@marineservices.co.za

www.marineservices.co.za

No Deviations No Delays 7 NOVEMBER 2019

MAURITIUS: The Indian Naval Ship (INS) Darshak arrived in Mauritius on Monday to carry out, for a period of one month, multi-disciplinary surveys under the Memorandum of Understanding on Hydrographic Cooperation between the Government of India and Republic of Mauritius.

The deployment of INS Darshak is very important for undertaking the bathymetric surveys required for the publishing of a new navigational chart to comply with the enhanced charting scheme executed by the National Hydrographic Office, India.

Detailed bathymetric survey would be carried out for the first time at Souillac and thereafter a new large scale chart covering the area would be published. Apart from the sea faring community, the chart will be of immense value to various stakeholders, especially those planning development activities in the maritime domain in the southern part of Mauritius, where until now, very limited data is available.

GET ALL YOUR MARITIME NEWS AS IT HAPPENS:

www.maritimereview.co.za

supporting Hapag-Lloyd and Ocean Network Express through this new venture. The Ports of Durban and Cape Town will play a key role in regional integration through the lines’ existing global network.”

TPT’s Acting Chief Operations Officer Velile Dube welcomed not only the new vessel but also the new service as it will short-circuit destinations between ports in Asia, South and West Africa, increasing efficiencies for the customer.

“We are always looking at ways to improve our service levels with the aim of facilitating cost competitiveness in markets our customers

SHIPPING

Port of Durban welcomes first vessel on new MIAX service SOUTH AFRICA: The MV New Jersey Trader visited the Port of Durban at the beginning of the month as the inaugural vessel to arrive at the port on the new MIAX (Middle East-India-Africa Express) service recently introduced by Hapag-Lloyd and its alliance partner, Ocean Network Express (ONE).

The container vessel was welcomed into port with a ceremonial tug spray and plaque exchange. The vessel was built in 2011 and flies the flag of Malta.

Hapag-Lloyd’s new MIAX service offers direct connections and fast

transit times between South and West Africa, the Persian Gulf, India, Colombo (Sri Lanka) and La Réunion. It is connected to the Global Mainline Network via the key ports of Jebel Ali (Dubai) and Colombo.

A total of nine ships with a capacity of 2,800 TEU each, will be deployed for the new service. While the Port of Durban is seeking growth opportunities from Hapag-Lloyd and ONE, this transaction is yet another milestone for the Port and the container industry at large.

GM: Port of Durban, Moshe Motlohi, said, “TNPA looks forward to

compete in,” added Dube.

The first port rotation for the service is: Jebel Ali |Mundra | Nhava Sheva | Colombo | La Réunion | Durban |Cape Town |Tema |Lagos (Tincan and Apapa) |Cape Town |Durban | Jebel Ali. Hapag-Lloyd said, “The MIAX service’s maiden call to Durban followed by Cape Town is a momentous occasion for us. Our new MIAX will connect the Middle East and the Indian subcontinent to South Africa and West Africa with a quality service. We are very excited and look forward to growing in South Africa and Africa as a whole.”

PEOPLE & EVENTS

Angolan delegation visits Saldanha’s Iron Ore Export Line SOUTH AFRICA: Transnet National Ports Authority’s Port of Saldanha recently hosted delegates from Angola on a knowledge sharing expedition to the Iron Ore Export Line, in collaboration with Transnet International Holdings (TIH).

PORTS

TIH has been engaging with Ferrangol, a state-owned corporation that manages iron ore production in Angola and Caminho de Ferro da Moçâmedes (CFM) which is the operator of the Southern-most railway line in Angola, over plans to restart the export of iron ore from the mines at Jamba in the Cassinga area, via rail, to the port of Sacomar in the South of Angola.

Addressing congestion in the Port of Durban SOUTH AFRICA: Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) were forced to call for the deployment of the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Durban Metro Police at the end of this month to help alleviate truck congestion in the Bayhead Precinct of the Port which continued unabated throughout the night of 27 November.

Sacomar Port was opened in 1967 to export iron ore from Kassinga/Jamba Mines in the South-East of the country. However, the port and mine operations were discontinued due to the civil war, and the port terminal with all its equipment has since remained in a condition of advanced deterioration until now, long after the long civil war ended. The Angolan government has recently rehabilitated the 550km railway line from the mine to the port and now plan to revive mining activities at Kassinga and Jamba. This necessitates the rehabilitation of Sacomar Port. The reopening of iron ore mines and the resumption of exporting of iron ore will be an effective solution to address the challenge of a crude oil heavily dependent economy.

A significant number of employees working across the terminals and depots in the Bayhead and Island View Precincts reported being unable to access their work stations on time for duty. This led to delays in landside operations which had a knock-on effect on waterside operations. In order to overcome this challenge and minimise the impact on operations, TNPA had to deploy its waterside craft to ferry employees from the Point Precinct to the Bayhead and Island View Precincts.

Transnet also appealed to transport companies not to participate in a boycott plan to park at their depots in an effort to avert further disruption.

Earlier this year, TIH, together with representatives from various ODs, visited Ferrangol, CFM and Porto do Namibe to conduct a technical assessment and thereafter invited the Angolans to visit the South African operation in Saldanha with the view to gain an understanding of the requirements of a large-scale operation. TIH is currently in advanced stage of talks with the Angolan authorities in respect to a long-term technical collaboration.

The congestion was bought under control by late 28 November and, according to TNPA, the backlog was cleared to ensure that terminal operations could continue.

The congestion began on Tuesday, 26 November when one of the privately owned container depots began experiencing congestion in their stacking yard, leading to a build-up of traffic on Bayhead Road. The situation was exacerbated when frustrated truck drivers began attempting to drive contra flow. Transnet endeavoured to make alternative transport arrangements for employees working across the terminals and depots in the Bayhead and Island View Precincts, who were unable to access their work stations on time for duty. This affected landside and waterside operations at Durban Container Terminal Pier 1 and Pier 2 which were working with minimal resources.

8 NOVEMBER 2019

MARITIME REVIEW AFRICA

FEEDING AN INTEREST IN AQUATIC LIFE SOUTH AFRICA: The Cresta Shopping Centre in Randburg has been helping foster an interest in aquatic life for the last few months by showcasing a marine exhibit at the CrestAquarium which hosts 32 colourful ocean reef fish.

Shoppers can view feeding time inbetween their Christmas shopping every Saturday in December. Feeding time is usually between 12 noon and 12:20, but are subject to change at the discretion of the shopping centre.

9 NOVEMBER 2019

PORTS

Multi-purpose terminal operator launches business in Port of PE SOUTH AFRICA: Bidfreight Port Operations (Pty) Ltd (BPO) officially launched its Multi-Purpose Terminal operations in the Port of Port Elizabeth at the end of November after completion of its refurbishment to Sheds 10 and 11.

Transnet National Ports Authority’s (TNPA) Port of PE announced in February this year the appointment of its third terminal operator at the Multi-Purpose Terminal (MPT).

BPO became the second private terminal operator at the MPT after the successful award of a Section 56 terminal operator license through an open tender process.

The license awarded to BPO

required the design, development, financing, construction, operation and maintenance of the sheds.

The project has now officially been completed with the sheds transformed into state-of-the-art facilities ensuring vital volume growth of multi-purpose cargo passing through the Port of PE, boosting the economy of Nelson Mandela Bay and providing much needed jobs.

A Section 56 agreement, in terms of the National Ports Act, allows TNPA to sign terminal operator agreements with private-sector companies to reduce the cost of doing business and improve the competitiveness of South African companies.

The strategic partnership between TNPA and BPO has ensured the critical creation of jobs during the construction phase, the promotion of rural development through skills development in the construction industry, empowering local BBBEE businesses and increasing local business revenue.

FISHING

Lobster on the menu for small scale fishers SOUTH AFRICA: Small-scale fishers of the Western Cape have for the first time been granted access to fishing during the 2019/20 west coast rock lobster season as part of the transition to the new small-scale fishing sector.

“There was a general call for interim relief fishers to continue fishing for the next season and for fishers on the declared small-scale fishers list to be granted access to fish,” said the Minister adding that, in considering the requests from communities, the Department had been instructed to fast-track the roll- out of the small-scale fisheries sector in the province.

Minister Creecy says that it is imperative for small-scale fishers to be granted access to fishing while they are waiting on their 15-year fishing rights to be allocated. These 2,749 fishers were declared for the first time in 2018 as small-scale fishers as part of the roll-out of small-scale fishing sector in Western Cape. Minister Creecy also noted that the current interim relief dispensation will continue taking into account that some interim relief fishers have already signed contracts for the West Coast rock lobster 2019/20 fishing season.

As a form of transition, the department has amended the interim relief lists to include fishers who have been declared small-scale fishers to be part of this last interim relief dispensation. Interim relief fishers and small-scale fishers will equally share the west coast rock lobster allocation allocated to them for the West Coast rock lobster 2019/20 fishing season.

Addressing exploitation In an effort to eradicate further exploitation by caretakers, the Minister announced that the will be no caretakers for the 2019/20 West Coast rock lobster fishing season.

According to her, all fishers will be required to sign a letter of authorisation drafted by the Department on the amended interim relief list for 2019/2020 fishing season. Interim relief fishers are to nominate an individual who will execute specific and spelled-out tasks on their behalf. On signing, each fisher is given an opportunity to indicate which marketer they have signed with.

The Department anticipates that this will allow fishers who have not signed a contract to choose who they want to market their products without being influenced on the choice of marketer.

The person authorised by the majority of fishers in a community to assist interim relief fishers will be able to assist in the completion of permit and license application forms, collating all the necessary supporting documents required by the Department, and ensuring that fishers do not sign more than one contract at a time.

They will also have to ensure that each fisher is able to exercise their right to enter into a contract with a marketer of their choice, submit completed permit and vessel application forms to the Department; sign landing slips and, if necessary, nominate additional fishers to assist with signing of landing slips against IR community’s permit; and assist any fisher with any information relating to the permit such as total of fish landed, information about export permits, and the like.

Audited process One of the many challenges raised by fishers was that the Western Cape small-scale fishers list did not include all small-scale fishers in the province and in that the process was not fair. As a result of the unhappiness among fishers about the final list of the declared small-scale fisher in the Western Cape Province, Minister Creecy appointed BDO auditors and advisory firm to conduct an investigation of the small-scale fisheries registration and verification process, as well as the final list of small-scale fishers for Western Cape Province.

Following the receipt of the preliminary findings of the probe, the Minister is considering the appointment of an independent panel to review the appeals of all unsuccessful applicants, and for it to provide a revised list of fishers who can be declared as additional small-scale fishers to the Minister for a decision.

Rajesh Dana, Port Manager of the Port of PE said, “The transformation that BPO has brought to the MPT through the refurbishment and upgrade of Sheds 10 and 11, is testament to what a Section 56 agreement can achieve through collaboration with industry players.

BPO has provided great investment into the sheds and has further ensured that TNPA delivers on its mandate of ensuring economic growth in Nelson Mandela Bay, through successful facilitation of business opportunities.”

“Reaching this milestone of completing the construction and facelift of the Port of PE’s sheds is attributed not only to the hard work and commitment shown by our BPO employees, but also to the manner in which the TNPA Port of PE team has supported and facilitated the process in getting us to this point.

BPO can now optimally strive to surpass the values enshrined in our motto: In place. On Time.,” said Jannie Roux, BPO’s Managing Director.

BPO is a fully empowered Level 2 BBBEE entity and is one of the largest providers of in-port logistics in South Africa. BPO aims to create at least 30 new permanent jobs in the logistical supply chain through their PE operation, enhancing their reputation of world-class expertise in stevedoring, transport, agency clearing and forwarding as well as warehousing.

ADVERTISE IN OUR MONTHLY ROUND-UPS

DIGITAL

News Roundup Distributed at the end of every month, the Digital News Roundup will also be available for download from our website.

CONTACT: editor@maritimesa.co.za

10 NOVEMBER 2019

MARITIME REVIEW AFRICA

ECO

DUAL FUEL

EC

DUAL

ECO

DUAL FUEL

11 NOVEMBER 2019

PEOPLE & EVENTS

Mossel Bay port struts its stuff Throngs of people enjoyed waterside activities, live entertainment, exhibitions and markets at the new-look Garden Route Port Festival hosted

by Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) on Saturday, 2 and Sunday, 3 November 2019 at the Port of Mossel Bay. Port-goers gathered for live screenings of the Rugby World Cup final on Saturday and areas of the festival erupted into celebration when the Springboks were named the champions.

“It was a very special weekend for the community of Mossel Bay and the greater Garden Route that really brought people together,” said Mossel Bay Port Manager, Shadrack Tshikalange.

“We were extremely delighted to open up our port once again so that we could educate the public about what happens here through a range of fun, family-friendly activities and demonstrations,” he said.

Visitors of all ages were able to enjoy tours of the Ruth First patrol vessel, as well as Transnet tugs. Locals and tourists took advantage of the free public open days at the Cape St Blaize Lighthouse over the weekend. A business and maritime careers exhibition showcased information from organisations such as Transnet, African Marine Solutions (AMSOL), ETA College, Petro SA, the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA), SAPS Da Gamaskop, Sea Harvest, South Cape College and Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT).

EDUCATION & TRAINING

A “STITCHY” SITUATION: a stitch (removed) in time saves nine

BY SEA CADET PETTY OFFICER CLAYTON CORNELIUS

Fishing enthusiasts took part in the shoreline and deepsea fishing competition which kicked off bright and early at the port breakwater on Saturday, while young and old had lots of fun participating in the Garden Route Colour Splash 5km fun run and walk which took them through sites in and around the port.

I am a Sea Cadet Petty Officer at TS (Training Ship) Woltemade in Lakeside. Here I have learned to discipline, seamanship, drilling, sailing, leadership and first aid. We train on a Saturday, some week ends and camps during school holidays. We have serious fun doing this !

For many, the big highlights were the free music performances on the main stage by the likes of national hit- national hit-makers Kwesta on Saturday evening and Vusi Nova on Sunday afternoon, as well as a host of local artists and performers.

After Colours at 08h00 took place we changed into Action Working Dress (AWD’s) and carried on with our classes, however this was not going to be a normal Saturday.

BELOW: Learners visit the AMSOL stand at the Port Festival | BOTTOM: Fishing competition.

All those qualified in first aid were requested to muster in the main hall.

The Western Cape Area Officer, Lt Cdr (SAN) Glenn von Zeil, usually opens the ship’s library filled with school’s subject study aids from the Answer Series, dvd’s and books on naval, nautical, maritime and thought provoking subjects.

The Lt Cdr has a small matter which he wanted resolved without any fuss. He said “So you are the first aiders ? Who is brave enough to remove the stitches in my head ?

You can just imagine the shock and temporary horror we all experienced. We all looked at each other and since none of the others looked as if they wanted any part of it, I decided to step up without overthinking the challenge.

improvisation.

This was “a stitchy situation”.

I put on the gloves, disinfected the area and slowly with great patience and skill successfully removed the 6 very tiny stitches from Lt Cdr’s head. There was no discomfort to the “patient” I was very nervous in the beginning , but calmed down and centred myself when Lt Cdr assured me that he trusted me and my abilities completely.

The Lt Cdr congratulated me afterwards and indicated that didn’t need to go back to the doctor.

He told me after the procedure, “Cornelius , you are one of the most extraordinary young men I have met in a long time. You have courage!

You are a gentleman and I hope you keep spreading positivity.”

It meant the world to me to hear those kind words coming from someone who I hold in such high regard.

He also forwarded a recommendation for a Good Conduct Badge (GCB) to the OC (Officer Commanding) Lt Cdr (SCC) Pau Jacobs indicating that a fine task was performed.

For me his words of encouragement and thanks was reward enough.

The OC did not award me a Good Conduct Badge….I was recognised and promoted instead ! “A stitch (removed) in time saves nine!”

The Lt Cdr enquired how I was going to perform the task and thereafter I went in search of a pair of scissors, rubber gloves, disinfectant and some swabs from the First Aid kit.

Thank you to the Lt Cdr and OC for making opportunities available to Sea Cadets and always being a motivation and encouragement to me so that I can reach my full potential.

The scissors proved too big and blunt for the task. The Lt Cdr produced a pair of nail clippers and recommended that I use these as he had removed his own stitches previously with them. This is called

PHOTO BY SEA CADET SEAMAN JODY EVERSON: Sea Cadet Petty Officer from TS Woltemade, Clayton Cornelius removed stiches from a “patient” using improvisation.

12 NOVEMBER 2019