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North Sea collision sparks marine insurance concerns

Africa Ports & Ships

According to a detailed analysis by Morningstar DBRS, the world’s fourth largest credit ratings agency, the collision between the MV Solong and the MV Stena Immaculate underscores significant implications for the marine insurance sector.

Morningstar DBRS’s highlights that multiple insurance policies, including hull and machinery, liability, and marine cargo insurance, are expected to be activated.

The collision, which occurred on 10 March 2025, off the eastern coast of England in the North Sea, has led to severe damage to both vessels and triggered investigations into potential liability and environmental impact. Morningstar DBRS estimates that total insured losses could range between $100 million and $300 million.

While this level of loss is considered manageable for the global marine insurance market, it raises concerns regarding the sector’s profitability, especially after substantial claims in 2024 from incidents like the Baltimore Bridge collapse and Red Sea attacks.

Morningstar DBRS’s Commentary follows:

According to a detailed analysis by Morningstar DBRS, the collision between the MV Solong and the MV Stena Immaculate underscores significant implications for the marine insurance sector.

Morningstar DBRS’s commentary highlights that multiple insurance policies, including hull and machinery, liability, and marine cargo insurance, are expected to be activated.

On Monday 10 March 2025, the MV Solong, a Portuguese-flagged cargo ship, collided with the MV Stena Immaculate, a tanker transporting jet fuel for the U.S. military, off the eastern coast of England in the North Sea.

The collision caused severe damage to both vessels, resulting in a ruptured cargo tank on the Stena Immaculate, multiple explosions, and the release of Jet-A1 fuel into the sea.

Most crew members escaped unharmed, though a sailor from the Solong remains missing. The U.S. government is investigating the incident to rule out sabotage due to the sensitive nature of the cargo.

Insurance Fallout

The collision is set to activate a range of marine insurance policies, including:

• Hull and Machinery (H&M) Insurance: Visual evidence suggests both ships may be total losses, with combined insured values estimated between $50 million and $100 million, including salvage costs.
• Protection and Indemnity (P&I) Insurance: Likely to bear the brunt of claims, particularly for environmental cleanup costs, which could exceed hull policy payouts.
• Marine Cargo Insurance: Claims are expected for losses incurred by cargo owners on both vessels.

Preliminary estimates place total insured losses between $100 million and $300 million. The incident highlights challenges facing marine insurers, particularly following significant claims in 2024, such as the Baltimore Bridge collapse and Red Sea shipping disruptions.

Industry Impact

Morningstar says that while the global marine insurance industry can absorb the financial losses from this event, the collision raises concerns over the profitability of marine insurance. Protection and indemnity insurers, particularly members of the International Group of P&I Clubs, will likely face increased scrutiny.

These insurers operate through risk-sharing mechanisms, including mutual reinsurance for losses above $10 million and general excess loss reinsurance for claims surpassing $3 billion.

Legal Implications

Litigation is expected to arise as parties seek to determine liability, potentially activating subrogation clauses. Cargo insurers could recover losses from liability insurers if the ship owners or operators are found responsible. The findings of the U.S. investigation may significantly influence the outcome of such claims.

Outlook

Despite manageable financial losses, the incident underscores ongoing risks in the marine insurance sector. Insurers must contend with rising claims costs, technological vulnerabilities, and environmental liabilities while striving to maintain profitability.

However, experts do not foresee a material impact on the sector’s credit profile for 2025.

Solong captain arrested

In related news, it is reported that the master of the container ship Solong, a 59-year old Russian, has been arrested by British police and charged with gross negligence manslaughter.

The remaining crew from the Portuguese-flagged container vessel are a mix of Russian and Filipino seafarers.

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IFC invests $50 million in Lagos Free Zone to boost Nigeria’s industrial growth

Africa Ports & Ships

Lagos, Nigeria – Earlier this year the International Finance Corporation (IFC) announced an equity investment of up to $50 million in Lagos Free Zone Company to support the expansion of Nigeria’s first deep-sea port-based private special economic zone, Lagos Free Zone (LFZ).

The investment is aimed at enhancing infrastructure, attracting local and global businesses, and contributing to Nigeria’s economic diversification.

The funding will facilitate the development of the 860-hectare zone, with a focus on industrial facilities, logistics infrastructure, and land development.

Owned by Singapore-based multinational group Tolaram, Lagos Free Zone is integrated with the Lekki Deep Sea Port and is designed to streamline import and export operations, positioning Nigeria as a key player in global trade.

With Nigeria’s economy projected to grow by 3.7% by 2026, investments in infrastructure are considered crucial for sustainable development.

Upon full occupancy, Lagos Free Zone is expected to generate approximately 30,000 direct and indirect jobs while significantly contributing to Nigeria’s GDP.

“This investment reflects IFC’s commitment to fostering inclusive economic growth and sustainable development in Nigeria,” said Dahlia Khalifa, IFC Regional Director for Central Africa and Anglophone West Africa.

“Lagos Free Zone is set to become a transformative industrial hub, enhancing Nigeria’s competitiveness in global markets.”

A portion of the investment, around 15%, is earmarked for climate-related initiatives, including energy-efficient, EDGE-certified buildings and climate-resilient infrastructure.

Adesuwa Ladoja, MD/CEO of Lagos Free Zone Company, highlighted the importance of the investment, stating, “IFC’s support validates our vision to establish Lagos Free Zone as a world-class industrial hub. This funding will scale up infrastructure, attract more foreign and local tenants, and promote sustainability, aligning with Nigeria’s economic diversification goals.”

Lagos Free Zone is already home to global brands such as Kellogg’s, Dano Milk, Colgate, BASF, ADM, and Tata International. The investment aligns with Nigeria’s economic reforms and the IFC’s strategic framework, which prioritizes economic diversification and climate-resilient infrastructure.

By addressing infrastructure challenges and improving connectivity, IFC’s investment in Lagos Free Zone is expected to create new business opportunities and reinforce Nigeria’s role as a regional economic leader.

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Angola enhances regional economy by joining SADC Free Trade Area

Africa Ports & Ships

ANGOLA is poised to join the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Free Trade Area (FTA) as its 14th member, a move heralded as a major boost to regional economic integration.

The decision was finalized at a trade negotiating forum in Luanda in February 2025, setting the stage for Angola to leverage the benefits of tariff-free trade and expanded market access across the SADC region.

The SADC FTA, launched in 2008, fosters seamless trade among its member states by removing tariffs on most goods, streamlining cross-border commerce, and encouraging investment.

Angola’s entry into the bloc is expected to amplify its economic influence, merging the nation’s abundant natural resources and growing market with the collective strength of the existing 13 members. Analysts predict this will drive industrial growth, increase trade volumes, and attract significant investment to Angola.

For Angola, the elimination of trade barriers promises a wealth of opportunities. Local industries stand to gain from cheaper imports of raw materials and goods, while exporters will enjoy improved access to SADC markets.

Consumers may also benefit from lower prices and a wider variety of products as competition increases.

Angola’s strategic position and its role as one of Africa’s top oil producers further enhance the FTA’s potential, strengthening regional supply chains and promoting economic stability across Southern Africa.

The integration process is slated for completion by mid-2025, giving Angola time to align its regulations with SADC trade standards.

As preparations unfold, optimism is growing that Angola’s membership will spark widespread economic growth and deepen market ties, positioning Southern Africa as a more formidable contender in the global trade arena.

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Hutchison sells majority stake in global ports business to MSC and BlackRock

Africa Ports & Ships

Hong Kong-based CK Hutchison has agreed to sell an 80% stake in its global ports business to a consortium led by Mediterranean Shipping Company’s (MSC) Terminal Investment Limited (TiL) and U.S. investment firm BlackRock, in a landmark $22.8 billion deal.

The sale covers 43 ports in 23 countries but excludes Hutchison’s operations in China and Hong Kong.

The acquisition significantly strengthens MSC’s position in the global container terminal sector, making it the world’s largest terminal operator.

Hutchison’s divestment includes its 90% stake in Panama Ports Company, which operates the Balboa and Cristobal ports at the Panama Canal, amid political scrutiny over Chinese influence in maritime infrastructure.

MSC, through its TiL subsidiary, already has an extensive global terminal portfolio, including a strong presence in Africa.

In 2022, MSC acquired Africa Global Logistics (AGL), formerly Bolloré Africa Logistics, gaining control of 21 port concessions across the continent.

This move cemented MSC’s dominance in African trade routes, complementing its existing investments in various terminals in West and East Africa.

The addition of Hutchison’s assets further expands its reach, reinforcing its influence in key global trade hubs.
Executives from BlackRock, TiL, and Hutchison have emphasized that the deal is purely commercial and reflects a competitive bidding process.

However, the sale follows political pressure from the U.S., with President Donald Trump alleging Chinese control over the Panama Canal.

The transaction is still subject to regulatory approvals, particularly in key markets such as Panama, Northwest Europe, and Spain.

Divestitures of certain European port assets are possible once European governments and the EC have carried out regulatory reviews to assess the level of MSC market concentration.

If approved, the deal would reshape the global ports industry, positioning MSC as the dominant force in terminal operations while providing BlackRock with a major stake in critical infrastructure assets worldwide.

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Transnet Seeks Terminal Operator for Multi-Purpose Terminal at Port of Durban

Africa Ports & Ships

Durban 10 March 2025 – Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has launched a major initiative to boost the efficiency of the Port of Durban by inviting proposals for a new multi-purpose terminal.

The authority has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) to appoint a terminal operator responsible for designing, developing, and managing a facility dedicated to agricultural dry bulk and other compatible cargo within the Maydon Wharf Precinct.

Spanning approximately 145 hectares, Maydon Wharf is a key logistics hub, featuring 15 berths and handling over 7 million tons of cargo annually. The area supports a mix of dry bulk, break bulk, limited liquid bulk, and containerized shipments.

Under the proposed 25-year concession, the selected operator will be required to design, fund, construct, operate, maintain, and eventually transfer the terminal.

“This RFP marks another step in our strategic drive to modernize infrastructure, enhance cargo-handling capabilities, and reinforce Durban’s role as a leading trade gateway,” said Nkumbuzi Ben-Mazwi, Acting Port Manager for the Port of Durban.

The project site comprises two lease areas—Lease L36049 (12,266 m²) and Lease L306091 (12,859 m²)—covering a combined 25,125 m². Lease L36049 is a brownfield site equipped with existing structures, including an administration building, office block, and workshop.

Interested parties are encouraged to submit their proposals as TNPA moves forward with its mission to optimize port operations and strengthen South Africa’s trade infrastructure.

RFP documents can be accessed on the Transnet e-tender portal, here

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The G20: how it works, why it matters and what would be lost if it failed

Africa Ports & Ships

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Tropical Cyclone Jude bears down on Mozambique

Africa Ports & Ships

A Tropical Storm named Jude (25S), which has been growing in intensity towards being defined as a Tropical Cyclone, was expected to make landfall of Monday (10 March) along the northern and central coasts of Mozambique.

By the time the storm reaches to coast it is expected to have increased to the point of being a full cyclone, bringing heavy rain and strong winds, with wave heights near the coast of 11 or more metres.

Fishing fleets and other small boats are being advised not to venture out to sea at this time.

Earlier on Monday the centre of the storm was situated at 14.8° S and 43.4° E, with winds reaching 85 km/h and gusts of up to 120 km/h. According to INAM, the Mozambique weather bureau, the storm was approaching Nampula province at a speed of 26 km/h.

INAM further forecast deteriorating weather conditions above the 18° S parallel with winds of up to 100 km/h gusting to 150 km/h.

More than 250 mm of rain is likely in the next 24 hour period together with severe thunderstorms. People should avoid unnecessary travel in areas prone to flooding and landslides, the bureau advised.

Cyclone Ivone 24S

Meanwhile, Tropical Cyclone Ivone (24S) is situated approximately 1400 nautical miles east Mauritius, and is tracking south-south westwards at 10 knots and needs to be watched.

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HM The King goes afloat

Edited by Paul Ridgway 
Africa Ports & Ships
London

On 4 March HM The King visited aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales as the Royal Navy finalises preparations for a major global deployment to the Indo-Pacific this spring.

King Charles flew to the flagship in the Channel during the closing stages of her intensive training before she sets sail for Japan on a mission that will deepen the UK’s defence partnerships and promote security and stability.

It has been said that the day’s event was the first time in nearly forty years that a reigning monarch has visited a Royal Navy warship at sea, underlining the importance and scale of the deployment the Portsmouth-based carrier will lead in just a few weeks’ time.

HM, Honorary Commodore-in-Chief

Visiting in his role as the Honorary Commodore-in-Chief Aircraft Carriers, His Majesty – who is Head of the Armed Forces – met serving Royal Navy and Royal Air Force personnel and addressed the ship’s company.

His Majesty told personnel gathered in the hangar: “As you prepare to set sail as the flagship of the UK Carrier Strike Group, building on the success of HMS Queen Elizabeth’s inaugural deployment in 2021, I just wanted to express, on behalf of the nation, my heartfelt gratitude for the extraordinarily valuable contributions and personal sacrifices that you and your families continue to make in the name of duty.

“I can sense the anticipation and excitement amongst many of you today for what lies ahead over the next eight months and all I can say is I will be watching your progress with great interest.”

His Majesty toured the warship and watched F-35B Lightning jets operating from the flight deck.

HMS Prince of Wales’ CO, Captain Will Blackett, said: “It was a great honour to host His Majesty onboard today.

“I was able to show him first hand that HMS Prince of Wales is at high readiness, standing by to deliver for the UK when ordered.

“His visit was a great source of morale for my excellent ship’s company and we look forward to doing him proud in all our endeavours this year.”

HM and carrier ops

His Majesty is no stranger to aircraft carrier operations having flown in a Buccaneer jet to HMS Ark Royal in 1977 from Royal Navy Air Station Yeovilton.

Although an experience pilot, the then Prince flew in the rear seat while Lieutenant Commander Tony Morton, the CO of 809 Naval Air Squadron, piloted.

That same squadron has recently been recommissioned after a 41-year absence to fly F-35B stealth jets and will operate from Prince of Wales alongside 617 Squadron ‘Dambusters’ during the global deployment.

His Majesty arrived from Sandringham by Royal Navy Merlin helicopter this time around and was joined aboard by the First Sea Lord, Admiral Sir Ben Key, the head of the Royal Navy, and chief of the Royal Air Force, Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Knighton.

The King followed in his late mother’s footsteps with this visit – Queen Elizabeth II similarly visited aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth alongside in Portsmouth in 2021 before the then-flagship deployed on her own global mission to the Indo-Pacific.

She was the last reigning monarch to visit a Royal Navy warship at sea when with her husband HRH Prince Philip she embarked in minehunter HMS Brocklesby making the short trip from Rosyth to Leith, escorted by HMS Maxton, in 1988.

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Grindrod Reports Resilient 2024 Results Despite Challenges

Africa Ports & Ships

Durban, South Africa – Grindrod Limited, the JSE-listed freight logistics company, has announced its results for the 2024 financial year, showing resilience despite facing several operational challenges.

For the year ended 31 December 2024, Grindrod reported core revenue of R7.4 billion, slightly down from R7.5 billion in 2023. Core headline earnings were R1.0 billion, a decrease from R1.4 billion in the previous year. Core EBITDA also declined to R2.0 billion from R2.5 billion in 2023, while cash generated from operations fell to R0.8 billion, compared to R1.2 billion last year.

The company’s net debt stood at R1.5 billion, with a net debt-to-equity ratio of 16%. A final ordinary dividend of 17 cents per share was declared, bringing the total dividend for 2024 to 40 cents per share, with R267.2 million in total cash distributions to shareholders.

Despite lower commodity prices and disruptions caused by cyclonic flooding in the first half of the year, Grindrod achieved solid operational milestones. Notably, the company recorded a record 14.3 million tonnes in chrome exports through Maputo Port, marking a 14% increase from the previous year. However, dry-bulk terminal throughput declined by 5%, handling 16.7 million tonnes.

The logistics company also made significant moves in expanding its infrastructure footprint. Grindrod was selected by Transnet to build and operate the first full-scale container terminal in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. The project is expected to require an investment of at least R500 million over its 25-year operation.

Additionally, Grindrod completed the acquisition of the remaining 35% shareholding in the Matola terminal for R1.4 billion, solidifying its strategic position in the Maputo Port as a key logistics hub for Southern Africa’s mining sector.

Looking ahead, Grindrod is focusing on expanding integrated logistics solutions by leveraging its terminals and rail capabilities. The company also plans to invest up to R8 billion in infrastructure-led logistics opportunities across key corridors in Southern Africa.

Grindrod’s Rail division, which has been refurbishing locomotives repatriated from Sierra Leone, is preparing to participate in South Africa’s rail open access initiative. The company currently operates a fleet of 44 locomotives and 88 wagons and is exploring the acquisition of modern rolling stock to increase its reach in the country’s rail network.

CEO Xolani Mbambo emphasized the company’s commitment to expanding its logistics offerings to diverse markets, including liquid bulk, agricultural cargo, and various minerals. “We have identified a growth pipeline, including several logistics infrastructure-led investment opportunities, potentially worth R8 billion,” said Mbambo.

Grindrod’s strong operational capabilities, including its experience in managing concessions and understanding of regional logistics dynamics, continue to position the company as a leader in the logistics sector across sub-Saharan Africa.

For more information, visit Grindrod’s website.

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Weather Alert for Port of Durban & Richards Bay

Africa Ports & Ships

The South African Weather Services advises that a cold front will pass through Durban on Monday mid-morning (10 March 2025), resulting in strong Southerly to South-Westerly winds with an average speed of 20 to 25 knots, gusting to 35 to 40 knots.

This will occur from late morning until evening (20h00).

Although not mentioned in the report seen, it can be assumed that the same weather pattern will affect the Port of Richards Bay within an hour or two later.

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WHARF TALK:  offshore construction support vessel – REM INSPECTOR

Pictures by ‘Dockrat’ 
Story by Jay Gates

What, with President Trump making his bombastic and imperial threats to Hamas, and his cloth eared vision of a Palestinian free Gaza Riviera, one wonders if the Houthi menace is actually going to recede to the point that normal Suez bound traffic will recommence, thus removing the excitement for the casual maritime observer of what unusual vessel might arrive next in a South African port.

If there is one thing that the last eighteen months has shown the casual maritime observer, and who takes a keen interest in not just the arrival of an unusual vessel, but what activity it was actually built to perform, then it is the eye opening realisation that the offshore renewal wind energy sector, on a worldwide scale, is simply huge. The disruption to the Suez route has resulted in dozens of wind energy connected vessels calling in, and it excludes many more who bypass South African ports, because Port Louis, or Walvis Bay, offer a better bunker option.

On 4th March, at 09:00 in the morning, the offshore construction support vessel ‘REM Inspector’ (IMO 9662083) arrived off Cape Town, from Singapore. After a short hold off port limits, she entered Cape Town harbour, proceeding into the Duncan Dock, and went alongside the inner berth of the Eastern Mole, for her expected short call for bunkers, stores, and fresh provisions.

Built in 2013, ‘REM Inspector’ had her hull built by the Cemre shipyard at Istanbul in Turkey, before the incomplete hull was towed to the Havyard Leirvik AS shipyard at Leirvik I Sogn in Norway for completion and outfitting. She is 110 metres in length and has a deadweight tonnage of 4,705 tons.

She is a diesel electric vessel with power being produced by four Wärtsilä 6L32E/E2 generators providing 2,880 kW each. Power is transferred to two Wärtsilä 4D920 controllable pitch propellers, each producing 3,000 kW, to give her a transit service speed of 14 knots. She has a single Volvo Penta D9 emergency generator providing 220 kW.

For added manoeuvrability ‘REM Inspector’ has two bow Brunvoll FU93 transverse thrusters providing 1,750 kW each, three stern Brunvoll FU74 transverse thrusters providing 880 kW each, and a single bow Brunvoll AR80 retractable azimuth thruster providing 1,500 kW. Her overall fit of propellers and thrusters gives her a dynamic positioning classification of DP2.

Her dynamic positioning capabilities are controlled through a Kongsberg KPos DP-22 system, which receives inputs from three gyro compasses, three Differential GPS systems, two wind sensor systems, two HiPAP underwater acoustic systems, one Cyscan laser system, and one radius transponder system.

Her aft working deck provides 1,002 m2, with a deck strength of 10 tons/m2, and can carry up to 2,700 tons of deck cargo. Her cargo working operation is provided by a NOV F1776 knuckleboom, active heave compensated, deck crane with a lifting capacity of 150 tons. She also has a Remote Operating Vehicle (ROV) hangar, with the ability to operate with up to three ROVs on subsea operations

She is a Havyard 857 design, and has an ice classification of ICE 1C, which allows her to navigate in first year Baltic Sea ice thickness of 0.4 metres. As a construction support vessel ‘REM Inspector’ was designed to undertake subsea installation, inspection, maintenance, and construction operations.

Owned by REM Subsea AS, of Fosnavåg in Norway, ‘REM Inspector’ is operated by REM Offshore AS of Fosnavåg, and is managed by REM Maritime AS, also of Fosnavåg. She provides accommodation for 106 persons, and for crew change or logistic requirements she is fitted with a bow helideck, which has a ‘D’ value of 20.88 metres, and a weight limit of 12.8 tons, and which allows her to accept the largest offshore helicopter in current service, the Sikorsky S-92A.

On her working deck she has a walk to work gangway tower, which was originally fitted in 2019, to allow her to work in the offshore wind farm construction industry. In 2020 she commenced work on the inspection and maintenance of the Dan Tysk wind farm, which is located in the North Sea, some 38 nautical miles west of the German island of Sylt. The array consists of 80 wind turbines, each producing 3.6 MW of power, providing a total of 288 MW of power to households in North Germany.

Later in 2020 she crossed the North Sea to the UK coast, and conducted the replacement of the infield string electrical cables that link the turbines of the Race Bank wind farm, which is located 15 nautical miles off the Norfolk coast, north of Blakeney Point. The Race Bank array consists of 91 Siemens SWT-6.0-154 wind turbines, each producing 6 MW of power, providing 546 MW of electricity for households in Norfolk and Lincolnshire.

In 2021 she was contracted to conduct inspection and maintenance on the Global Tech 1 wind farm, which is located 98 nautical miles northwest of Bremerhaven, in the German Bight, and consists of 80 Adwen AD5-116 wind turbines, each producing 5 MW of power, and providing s total of 400 MW of power to households in North Germany.

In November 2023 she was awarded a six month contract, extended to one year, to provide service and maintenance for the 69 Vestas V174 wind turbines on the Changfang and Xidao wind farm, which is located 6 nautical miles west of the port of Taichung, which lies in the Taiwan Strait. The field provides 600 MW of electrical power to 650,000 homes on Taiwan. IN an unusual move, for the duration of this  contract ‘REM Inspector’ was reflagged to Taiwan.

On completion of her contracts in Taiwan ‘REM Inspector’ was reflagged back to that of the Norwegian International Register, in advance of her return to Norway to take up her next assignment. She began her long positioning voyage back to Europe in late January, departing from Anping in Taiwan, bound for a bunker stop in Singapore, and then via the Cape sea route.

On arrival in Norway she is to begin a three year charter for DOF Offshore AS, starting in April 2025, and working for Equinor, the Norwegian oil major, where ‘REM Inspector’ will be conducting full inspection, maintenance, and repair (IMR) operational duties on the Equinor offshore assets in both the Northern North Sea, and in the Norway Sector.

As expected, the stop of ‘REM Inspector’ in Cape Town was a brief one, and after the conclusion of the uplift of bunkers, stores and fresh provisions, she was ready to sail for Norway. At 2300 in the very late evening of 4th March, after a brief stop of just 14 hours alongside, she sailed from Cape Town, now bound for her next bunker call at Las Palmas in the Canary Islands.

On arrival back in Norway in late March, projected to be at the port of Bergen, ‘REM Inspector’ will be fitted with a deck mounted, modern containerized 1 MW battery bank. The system is capable of operating in peak shaving, spinning reserve, and harbour mode, and will reduce onboard energy consumption, leading to both cost savings and lower emissions.

In only seems right that her owners, operating in the renewables market, would want to provide their clients with a competitive, and environmentally friendly working platform. It is just another example for the casual maritime observer of how the international offshore wind power industry is progressing elsewhere, whilst South African offshore renewables remain moribund and effectively dormant in what is, effectively, a backwater.

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Largest NATO exercise of 2025: Deployment of Allied Reaction Force (ARF)

Edited by Paul Ridgway 
Africa Ports & Ships
London

It was reported from NATO MARCOM Public Affairs on 3 March that two of NATO’s naval task groups have taken part in NATO’s largest exercise of 2025, Exercise Steadfast Dart, in the Aegean Sea. The exercise took place from 10 – 17 February.

Warships of both Standing NATO Maritime Group 2 (SNMG2) and Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group 2 (SNMCMG2) played a significant role in this large-scale multinational exercise, designed to boost working relationships between NATO Allies and Partners.

A first

This was also the first time NATO’s Allied Response Force Doctrine was used in an exercise scenario.

To test and to train

Exercise Steadfast Dart 2025 was designed to test and train the operational deployment of the Allied Reaction Force (ARF) to NATO Vigilance Area South-East.

The doctrine encompasses maritime, air and land activity, aiming to strengthen the Alliance’s collective defence capabilities while demonstrating unity and resolve.

SNMG2 naval units from France, Greece, Italy, Spain and Türkiye, along with staff from Bulgaria and the United Kingdom, demonstrated their professionalism and expertise throughout the exercise. The ships taking part were flagship TCG Kemalreis (Türkiye), FS Commandant Birot (France), HS Kountouriotis (Greece), ITS Thaon di Revel (Italy), two warships from Spain: ESPS Álvaro de Bazán and ESPS Patino, reinforced by the Greek Navy’s HS Limnos and other ARF Units.

More than 1,000 crew members from across NATO nations were on board, working tirelessly to ensure that the exercise aims and objectives were met.

Broad range of scenarios practised

The task group practised a wide range of activities, including escort operations for deployed units such as Aircraft Carriers and Amphibious Ships, anti-submarine warfare, Naval Gunfire Support (NGS), air defence, anti-surface firings and operations and Maritime Interdiction Operations. Additionally, SNMG2 units carried out many replenishments-at-sea, where they tested both ship-handling skills and the logistical capabilities of NATO’s maritime forces under challenging conditions.

Testing conditions

The crews’ dedication was particularly evident as they endured harsh weather and rough seas, making the execution of these complex operations even more challenging.

To quote Commander of SNMG2, Turkish Navy Rear Admiral H. Ilker Avci: “SNMG2 accomplished its mission in the first ever ARF exercise and enhanced vigilance activity through Exercise Steadfast Dart 25, demonstrating once again the leverage of having a standing naval force at sea at all times.

“The exercise has also been very beneficial for enhancing interoperability and testing the newly formed command and control structures of the Alliance.”

Securing vital sea lines of communication (SLOC)

The SNMCMG2 ships taking part were TCG Yüzbaşı Güngör Durmuş (flagship, Türkiye), Turkish minehunter TCG Ayvalık and French minehunter FS Capricorne. Together, they successfully conducted mine countermeasures training as part of the exercise scenario, demonstrating their ability to secure vital sea lines of communication (SLOC). The exercise highlighted SNMCMG2’s operational readiness, as well as the effectiveness of NATO’s combined maritime capabilities in ensuring safe passage for Allied naval forces.

Said the Commander of SNMCMG2 Turkish Navy Captain Kürsat Kurnaz: “Exercise Steadfast Dart 25 provided a dynamic and challenging environment where NATO forces refined their coordination and tactical proficiency.

“The operation highlighted the adaptability of multinational teams, reinforcing strong partnerships and ensuring seamless cooperation across different domains. The dedication and professionalism of all participants played a crucial role in executing complex scenarios successfully, demonstrating NATO’s commitment to maritime security and collective defence.”

Captain Kurnaz added: “Working side by side, our multinational team located and neutralised mines, showcasing how teamwork and interoperability keep the Alliance’s waters and critical underwater infrastructures safe.

“By training together, we enhance our readiness to maintain maritime security and send a clear message of strategic deterrence to any potential threat. We are always ready to keep the routes clear.”

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Rovuma Basin, Mozambique: TotalEnergies refutes claims of sub-contractor suspensions

Africa Ports & Ships

Mazime Rabilloud, chairperson of TotalEnergies’ liquefied natural gas (LNG) project in Mozambique’s Rovuma Basin, has denied reports that subcontracted companies are being suspended.

Speaking after a meeting with Cabo Delgado’s governor, Rabilloud clarified that some companies are not renewing contracts as they conclude, but this does not equate to suspensions.

The project has been on hold since April 2021, when TotalEnergies declared force majeure after a terrorist attack in Palma.

Preservation work is ongoing, with no set date for the project’s restart. Financial challenges also persist, as export banks have yet to confirm $16 billion in funding for the $20 billion project.

The initiative initially aimed to extract over 65 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, with future expansion plans targeting up to 43 million tonnes of LNG annually.

The project involves construction of two gas liquefaction units to be built on the Afungi Peninsula, with an expansion capacity of up to 43 million tonnes of LNG per year.

The Afungi Peninsula is situated a short distance to the south of the coastal town and small harbour of Palma.

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TRADE NEWS: Cummins announces DVN approval in principle for its methanol-ready marine engine

• TRADE NEWS: Cummins announces DVN approval in principle for its methanol-ready marine engine

Africa Ports & Ships

Columbus, Ind. – Cummins Inc.has announced DNV Approval in Principle (AIP) for its methanol-ready QSK60 IMO II and IMO III engines, available from 2000 – 2700 hp (1491 – 2013 kW).

Received in June 2024, the AIP validates Cummins retrofittable methanol dual-fuel solution for the global marine market, ensuring it meets the highest standards of safety and performance.

Following extensive field testing, Cummins plans to launch the retrofit kits post-2028 to align with market demand and infrastructure readiness. These kits will be particularly suited for diesel-electric systems that can be integrated with a battery, optimizing efficiency and sustainability.

As set out in Cummins announcement in November 2023, this project — with its focus on the conversion of existing engine installations — offers a seamless transition between….

Read the rest of this report in the TRADE NEWS section available by CLICKING HERE

Added 9 March 2025

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Transnet Begins Wage Negotiations with Labour Unions

Africa Ports & Ships

Transnet SOC Ltd has initiated wage negotiations with its recognized labour unions, United National Transport Union (UNTU) and South African Transport and Allied Workers’ Union (SATAWU), as the current three-year wage agreement is set to expire on 31 March 2025.

The transport and logistics company has tabled a revised wage offer that covers the basic salary, medical aid subsidies, pension fund contributions, housing allowances, and the 13th cheque. The proposed increases for the three-year period are as follows:

• Year 1: CPI +1 (4.5% increase)
• Year 2: CPI +0.5 (5% increase)
• Year 3: CPI +0.5 (5% increase)

This would amount to a cumulative 14.5% increase over the three years.

Transnet has stated that the revised offer is fair and reasonable, taking into account the company’s current financial challenges and the broader economic context. The offer is also designed with consideration for the well-being of employees, job security, and the organization’s long-term sustainability.

“The three-year wage agreement is aimed at creating a more stable and predictable environment for all parties involved,” said Transnet in a statement. “We are committed to ensuring a constructive and open dialogue that prioritizes mutual understanding and swift resolution of the negotiations.”

Although no final agreement has been reached yet, the company remains hopeful for a speedy conclusion that will allow Transnet to focus on its strategic goals of improving operational performance and ensuring job security for both current and future employees.

The outcome of these negotiations will also play a role in positioning Transnet for future growth and stability, benefiting employees, the company, customers, and the broader economy.

Added 9 March 2025

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Ocean Network Express boosts maritime talent development with new scholarships and internships

Africa Ports & Ships

Ocean Network Express (ONE), the global liner company, has partnered with the Singapore Maritime Foundation (SMF) to bolster the maritime industry’s future workforce.

The two organizations signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Wednesday last week, outlining a three-year commitment to sponsor scholarships and internships from 2025 to 2027.Under the agreement, ONE will fund at least two MaritimeONE scholarships—complete with opportunities for overseas exchange programs—and two MaritimeONE internships annually. The initiative, part of the ongoing ONE–MaritimeONE partnership, aims to cultivate a robust talent pipeline for the maritime sector. SMF will oversee the management and promotion of these opportunities, with candidate selection conducted jointly by both parties.This collaboration builds on ONE’s existing efforts with SMF, which include hosting student visits through the MaritimeONE Company Connect program, delivering keynote addresses and showcasing exhibits at the annual Maritime Youth Forum, and supporting the 2024 MaritimeONE VIP Pass. The VIP Pass offered winners an exclusive tour of one of ONE’s distinctive magenta vessels and a lunch with the company’s CEO.SMF Executive Director Tan Beng Tee hailed the partnership as a timely step forward. “I thank ONE for its strong support of SMF’s talent development programs,” she said.“The deepening of our partnership through this MoU demonstrates our collective commitment to nurturing future maritime talent. It comes at a pivotal juncture as the industry transitions into a future where technology is pervasive and shipping becomes greener, requiring a workforce with new skillsets.”Tay Ai Lin, Senior Vice President of Global Human Resources and ONE Academy at Ocean Network Express, echoed this sentiment. “At Ocean Network Express, we believe in nurturing talent that will shape the future of the maritime industry,” she said.“This MoU further cements our commitment to work with our stakeholders to create opportunities for bright minds to transform challenges into opportunities. We look forward to seeing these students become the industry leaders who will navigate our sector through increasingly complex global waters.”The MaritimeONE initiative, spearheaded by SMF, seeks to engage youths and young adults with the maritime industry through hands-on, experiential learning. This latest collaboration underscores a shared vision of preparing the next generation for a rapidly evolving field.With the agreement now in place, ONE and SMF are set to begin rolling out these opportunities in 2025, promising a significant boost to Singapore’s maritime talent pool over the next three years.Added 9 March 2025

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Red Sea SAR coordination

Edited by Paul Ridgway 
Africa Ports & Ships
London

IMO’s media service reported on 5 March that maritime authorities and rescue coordination centres in the southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden are working to strengthen regional coordination and boost their search and rescue capabilities.

Enhancement of safety and security

A Regional Search and Rescue (SAR) workshop in Mombasa held from 24-28 February focused on enhancing maritime safety and security in the region, with participants sharing experiences, challenges and best practices in SAR operations.

Discussions covered the latest developments on SAR procedures, techniques and equipment, including recent amendments to SOLAS Chapter IV regulations, related to modernizing the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) and the recognition of new mobile satellite services.

Five State participation

Seventeen officers, radiocommunication experts, marine engineers and Port State Control officers from Djibouti, Ethiopia, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen took part, alongside representatives from the EU Mission in Somalia (EUCAP), reinforcing IMO’s efforts to bolster coordination in maritime rescue operations.

EU-funded programme

The activity was delivered as part of the EU-funded Regional Programme for Maritime Security in the Red Sea Area (‘Red Sea Project’) .

Under the Project, IMO works with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL) and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) to support participating countries: Djibouti, Ethiopia, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen.

Improving implementation

The goal is to improve the capacities of port and land-based law-enforcement authorities in these countries to implement global maritime security and safety standards, while also promoting regional dialogue at the operational-level, based on sound maritime domain awareness (MDA). These efforts align with the objectives of Africa’s 2050 Integrated Maritime Strategy (AIMS).

Added 9 March 2025

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Obituary: Revd Boet van Schalkwyk

Reported by Paul Ridgway 
Africa Ports & Ships
London

It was with profound horror that we learnt yesterday (5 March) of the death of the ‘Chaplain of Chaplains’ – Boet van Schalkwyk.

A statement was received from Sailors’ Society and we reproduce it here:

‘It is with deep sadness that we have learned that our beloved pastoral chaplain and Crisis Response Network coordinator, Boet van Schalkwyk, has died suddenly following a car accident last night in his native South Africa.

‘Boet began working with the Society in 1989. He was a familiar voice at the end of our helpline and helped found our CRN.

‘He was an extraordinary man, and supported hundreds of seafarers and families at some of the most difficult times of their lives.

‘His compassion, heart and dedication to the seafarers he assisted was unrivalled and he was, and will remain, a guide and an inspiration to every single one of us at Sailors’ Society.

‘Boet was at the heart of our response to every crisis we supported. He was a truly admired and loved colleague and a friend who touched and impacted so many lives across the world.

‘Our hearts, thoughts and prayers go to his wife Linda and family.’

In the words of my editor Terry Hutson: ‘Boet was a good man who had quite a lot of dealings with us at Africa Ports during the time he was an active head chaplain here in Durban, particularly following a pirate attack off the Gulfs of Guinea or Aden.

Boet was the leader of a response team that went to counsel with the affected crew, whenever that was possible.

‘Sometimes the ship operators spirited the crew away from any outside contact.’

Added 7 March 2025

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GENERAL NEWS REPORTS

UPDATED THROUGH THE DAY

in partnership with – APO

Total cargo handled by tonnes during January 2025, including containers by weight

• see full report for the latest month and year in the news section

PORT	January 2025 – million tonnes
Richards Bay	7.718
Durban	6,171
Saldanha Bay	5.778
Cape Town	1.335
Port Elizabeth	0.850
Ngqura	1.155
Mossel Bay	0.054
East London	0.149
Total all ports during January 2025	23.209 million tonnes

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Terry Hutson