Maritime summit to anchor Durban’s smart port aim

AN exciting first for Durban, the Durban Maritime Summit (DMS), was announced on Tuesday, 2 February with the aim of bringing business, technology and tourism to the city.

“In hosting the first annual DMS eThekwini Maritime Cluster (EMC) plays a supporting role to the city as it strategically positions Durban as a smart port city,” said EMC chairman, Zeph Ndlovu.

EMC will play host for the summit in partnership with eThekwini Municipality from Wednesday to Friday, 24 to 26 February at Inkosi Albert Luthuli ICC.

With Durban generating more than 60% of the combined revenue of SAs ports, those involved in the DMS believe it is vital ‘to improve the infrastructure of the maritime sector, along with interdepartmental partnerships’.

At a ceremony at the Elangeni Hotel, delegates from across the globe welcomed the summit and local organisers hailed it as a major stepping stone for globalisation and improvement of one of Africa’s busiest ports. One of the highlights of the discussion regarding the DMS was the continued drive for a change from road to rail infrastructure.

The DMS will allow dialogue between foreign and domestic maritime officials, leading to ideas for making Durban a smart port city. Topics of discussion will include security, enterprise development, skills development and training, sustainable development and operation and improving the competitiveness of Durban’s marine manufacturing and transport sector.

EMC managing director, Thato Tsautse said the DMS will showcase the port of Durban to the public; create public awareness of the port; provide opportunities for business networking and look at development, transport and investment opportunities.

A trade and career expo at the Durban Exhibition centre will be held concurrently, to improve understating of the maritime sector and entice youngsters to enter the field.

In a bid to show not only the industrial and commercial opportunities in the city, but the recreational ones too, an interschool keelboat regatta will close the DMS on Friday and Saturday, 26 and 27 February.

“The summit is the first of what we plan to become an annual event for the city, during which we look at ways to educate, empower and inspire Durban residents about the importance of the maritime sector to their everyday lives, and importantly, showcase the investment opportunities in the maritime sector in Durban,” said deputy mayor, councillor Nomvuzo Shabalala.

For details go to www.maritimecluster.co.za.