Transnet completes R4bn investment at Saldanha iron ore terminal

State-owned logistics operator Transnet has announced the completion of a R4 billion investment at Africa’s largest iron ore export facility, the Saldanha iron ore terminal, in what is expected to be a boost for the country’s export capacity.

The infrastructure expansion project includes the installation of a heavy-duty tippler used to empty rail wagons.

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Transnet Port Terminals, which manages the Saldanha iron ore terminal, has invested extensively in cargo handling equipment across a network of 15 terminals over the past three years as part of Transnet’s growth strategy.

Above acquiring the new tippler, the terminal operator responsible for the loading and offloading of cargo across the country’s commercial ports has added a range of supporting infrastructure required to integrate the facility into the terminal’s operation.

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This includes the addition of a new Eskom substation, a 1.7km conveyor system, heavy-haul rail infrastructure, road bridges, conveyor tunnels, gantry cranes, and dust management systems that form part of the terminal’s ongoing efforts to manage the environmental impact of iron ore handling activities in the area.

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“As we celebrate 50 years of the Saldanha iron ore terminal, it is fitting that we do so while advancing one of the most significant infrastructure investments undertaken at the terminal and positioning this strategic export corridor for the future,” Transnet Port Terminals CEO Jabu Mdaki said on Wednesday after the start of testing and commissioning activities.

Commissioning is set to be concluded in the next two months, with the tippler expected to be handed over to operations in September.

Mdaki said the project is expected to generate broader economic benefits across the iron ore export value chain.

“The installation of the new tippler achieved an estimated contribution of 45% in local content across various work packages and supported about 1 500 jobs during peak construction activities.”

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Cutting the ribbon on Wednesday – from left: Transnet board members Boitumelo Sedibane and Pearl Zambane, Group COO Solly Letsoalo, Group CEO Michelle Philips, board member Dipak Patel, chair Andile Sangqu, West Coast District Municipality executive mayor Boffie Strydom, and Transnet Port Terminals CEO Jabu Mdaki. Image: Supplied

Since exporting its first shipment of iron ore in 1976, the Saldanha iron ore terminal has grown into what Mdaki describes as a strategic national asset that handles approximately 96% of South Africa’s iron ore exports and plays an important role in supporting the country’s mining sector and export economy.

Volume throughput in its 50 years running is estimated at 1.3 billion tonnes of iron ore exports.

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