Durban port can create youth jobs

THE Port of Durban becoming the epicentre of economic development and job creation in South Africa was one of the key points discussed at an EFF election campaign yesterday.

The EFF launched its campaign by officially opening its Winnie Madikizela-mandela offices in Gandhi Square in Johannesburg.

EFF treasurer-general Omphile Maotwe said mismanagement in stateowned enterprises (SOES) was a cause of concern while poverty and unemployment levels rose. The port alone could create employment and feed the poor in Kwazulu-natal if properly managed, Maotwe said.

The Transnet National Ports Authority is a government corporation and subsidiary of Transnet, manages eight of South Africa’s major seaports – Richards Bay, Durban, East London, Port Elizabeth, Mossel Bay, Cape Town, Ngqura, and Saldanha.

The Port of Durban has slipped from top position in Africa to third due to slow turnaround times, truck congestion, ship berthing delays and anchorage times, and poor maintenance of equipment.

President Cyril Ramaphosa announced in April that the expansion of the troubled port precinct would require R100 billion in new investment over the next decade.

"Kwazulu-natal has the potential to provide jobs for the people. We are prepared to transform the Durban port into Africa’s leading cargo carrier which generates billions and creates much-needed employment for young people,” Maotwe said.

“These SOES are the key strategic entities that should be benefiting the people of the country. We should be using some of them to create employment. Without a political will, none of this is possible,” Maotwe said.