[Mossel Bay, 13 December 2023] Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has concluded a ten (10) year lease with Afro Fishing (Pty) Ltd for the construction and operation of a fish processing plant at the Port of Mossel Bay, a development that will position Mossel Bay as a pioneer in the exploration and fishing of anchovy as well as red-eye herring in the region.
The Port of Mossel Bay is located in a district that uses traditional agricultural and food production methods. The port plans to expand its capacity for handling multi-purpose cargo that will facilitate exports essential to the regional transport and logistics value chain.
With Environmental Authorisation granted by the Department of Environmental Affairs and Developmental Planning (DEADP) in 2020 for 1000 tons per day processing capacity, Afro Fishing will commence with a first phase project capable of processing 300 tons per day. The facility will create export opportunities that will enable the port to participate in global markets and create job opportunities for locals.
This turn-key development, one of the first of its kind to be implemented by TNPA, will result in additional spinoffs such as an increase in trawler and diesel bunkering activities. Ancillary industries and Small Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) such as ice suppliers, fabricators, and transport operators stand to benefit from this integrated operation.
The municipal approval application for the development is anticipated to be concluded by June 2024 and will be followed by a 12-month construction period and installation period, with the facility anticipated to be commissioned by June 2025.
