The ports sector gathered to explore opportunities to modernise and improve the technical efficiency of African ports through innovation, infrastructure investment and strategic partnerships at Ports & Rail Week 2025, held in Durban from 25 to 26 November. The CSIR participated alongside delegates from across the continent.
The conference coincided with the annual Port Management Association of Eastern and Southern Africa (PMAESA) Council Meeting, where the CSIR contributed as a technical partner. Thirty-five delegates represented port authorities and maritime agencies from the region.
PMAESA, a regional forum that coordinates maritime activities and supports the long-term competitiveness of African economies, emphasised that sustainability is now fundamental to port development. Sustainable port infrastructure is increasingly recognised as the foundation for industrial growth, investment attraction and the resilience of African seaports in an era of shifting global maritime demands.
A key outcome of the engagement was the confirmation of South Africa’s Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) as Chair of the PMAESA Board for the next two years. Acting Chief Executive Adv. Phyllis Difeto accepted the Board’s resolution and provided updates on progress in improving efficiencies across South Africa’s commercial ports, an important signal of the country’s renewed commitment to integrated maritime development.
The delegates underscored the enabling role of information sharing, collaboration, capacity building, public-private partnerships and strategic investment in addressing the numerous challenges facing African ports. Across both the council meeting and the conference, environmental performance emerged as a defining element of global competitiveness. Accelerated environmental compliance, greener operations, cleaner vessels, modernised infrastructure and improved operational efficiencies were repeatedly identified as essential steps for future-ready ports. These measures safeguard local environments, support public health and align African ports with the international standards that shape trade flows and market access.
Concerns were raised regarding emissions at ports and their impacts on human health, ecosystems and global climate commitments. The delegates stressed the importance of mitigation strategies and strict compliance measures to maintain operational licences and the reputational credibility of port operators.
The CSIR’s strong presence at the meeting reflects its growing leadership in port sustainability. In recent years, the organisation has worked closely with UNEP and PMAESA to strengthen environmental management and sustainability practices in the Western Indian Ocean region. “African ports stand at a crossroads,” said CSIR principal scientist Steven Weerts. “We’re seeing more vessels, larger vessels and expanding operational demands. If we want our ports to compete globally, sustainability cannot be an add-on; it must be the blueprint. Ports that reduce their ecological footprint will be the ports that attract investment, enable growth and drive Africa’s economic future.”
Looking ahead, the CSIR will continue to support African ports in building world-class, sustainable operations that match global expectations. The work initiated through UNEP and the CSIR, with PMAESA as an agent for implementation, lays a strong foundation for long-term collaboration, innovation and capacity development. As African economies grow and maritime traffic intensifies, sustainability will remain the key to unlocking competitive, resilient and environmentally responsible seaports across the continent.
