Transnet Freight Rail Commences Manganese Exports from East London, Fuels Economic Transformation

Transnet Freight Rail, on Tuesday, embarked on a new chapter in its journey by shipping its first-ever manganese export from the Eastern seaboard of South Africa, using the Port of East London. An event marking this milestone was addressed by Eastern Cape Premier, Oscar Mabuyane, highlighting the transformative implications it bears for the province.

Mabuyane hailed Transnet's commitment of R9.1 billion towards developmental infrastructure projects which will be instrumental in unlocking immense economic potential, encouraging industry growth, and enhancing local manufacturing capabilities. The gravity of this investment is expected to boost Eastern Cape's support to crucial economic sectors including automotive, manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism.

The Premier stated, "The investment Transnet is making in the province's Ports of Ngqura, East London, and Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha), currently in progress, is reconfiguring our infrastructure. With this renaissance in sight, our ports and rail infrastructure are being adequately fortified for supporting these pivotal provincial sectors."

Mabuyane expressed gratitude towards Transnet for their big-ticket investment and confidently anticipates further investments that will invigorate the rail infrastructure, its upkeep and its protection against vandalism.

Focusing on broader repercussions, he stated that the consequential effects on concomitant industries could transform the Eastern Cape and the Northern Cape into competitive forces in global trade, particularly in mineral resources. "Our minerals, especially manganese, represent more than simple commodities. They stand as symbols of our national potential, strengthening the Rand and boosting our authority on the worldwide economic stage," added the Premier.