Richards Bay port bosses form national association

FOR years Richards Bay port users have emphasised the need for a platform to facilitate strong lines of communication between maritime professionals both within and outside South African borders.

This was finally answered by Richards Bay’s Phosfert Marine ship operator Mbongi Qwabe, Harbour Master Captain Sabelo Mdlalose and Deputy Harbour Master Captain Nompumelelo Mkhize, among several other local port pros, when they recently established the South African Maritime Professionals Association (SAMPA).

‘We have a vision to represent and actively promote the profession among policy makers, captains of industry and other professionals to increase the awareness of maritime industry,’ said SAMPA President Mbongi Qwabe.

‘SAMPA will accommodate everyone in the shipping fraternity – young and old, black and white – all who want to find a way to positively give back to the industry they all love and from which they make a living.’

Qwabe said the association, registered as a non-profit, is still in its infancy stage, but growing very quickly.

‘This is thanks to the group of enthusiastic, like-minded individuals who are all active in the industry in various ways.’

The group has set out clear objectives.

‘We want to be an effective communication channel,’ said Qwabe.

‘Secondly, we aim to attract, transform and retrain professionalism within the industry.

‘And thirdly, provide mentoring and coaching to those who are still entering the maritime industry.’

SAMSA has already initiated engagement with the Department of Transport (DoT), the Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) and the SA Association of Ship Operators and Agents (SAASOA) to forge strategic partnerships.

‘It is vital to build relationships with these organisations as they play a vital role in the maritime industry and employ the majority of the maritime professionals.’