THE winds of change are blowing through the male-dominated harbours and shipping industries, thanks to the entry of a women-run company into Algoa Bay’s burgeoning bunkering and related shipping sector.
That’s according to Eastern Cape MEC for Finance, Economic Development and Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Lubabalo Mabuyane, speaking at the commissioning of bunkering services at the Coega Development Corporation (CDC) Business Centre recently.
He was referring to South African Marine Fuels (SAMF), a South African owned, black women managed company.
“The entry of SA Marine Fuels into the offshore bunkering industry signals the winds of change in our province in as far the Ocean Economy goes,” Mabuyane said.
The Eastern Cape hosts the only port in South Africa that has licensed offshore bunkering operations. While Durban, Cape Town and Richards Bay are better known, Algoa Bay believes it has an edge in its bunkering offering, with the service not restricted ships in port, but general passing traffic too.
“Since the beginning of our operations, the project has experienced significant progress and has managed to amass an experienced crew, which comprises of transport, lodging, vessel supplies and technical services” said SAMF Managing Director Siyamthanda Maya.
“Currently we have three barges, which are charted and operated by the South African Marine Fuels. This is important because when operations are managed and directed locally this ensures that the industry and expertise are fully introduced to the country.
“This industry over the past three years has been breeding positive results, which promote sustainable growth. This was also made possible through the active contribution of associated services happening around bunkering, like the increase in ship chandlers as well as shipping agencies, which have increased employment, directly adding value to this province,” she added.