In a momentous gathering at the 8th biennial conference of the Port of Maputo, stakeholders convened under the theme “Beyond the Concession Extension: Building an Integrated Development Ecosystem at the Port of Maputo.” Presentations made by the Ministry of Transports and Communication, by CFM, TRAC, MPDC and Royal Haskoning were unanimous in pointing out the need for digital integration and symbiotic logistical relationships.
“One of the fundamental challenges we face is rail-port integration. Improving the ratio of road to rail freight can not only significantly increase the efficiency of the corridor, but also reduce environmental impacts and increase the sustainability of our logistics operations.”, said the Minister of Transports and Communications. The Minister challenged the National Ports & Railways Company, CFM, to increase the percentage of cargo handled by rail to the Port of Maputo to 60%.
“The next few years for the Port of Maputo will see major investments by all the stakeholders involved in the expansion process. All this effort can only be justified if the corridor offers quality service at the right price. All stakeholders must guarantee the sustainability of this common dream: to reach 54 million tons of capacity by the end of the concession.”, expressed the CEO of MPDC, Osório Lucas.
Notably, the unveiling of the Rail2Port initiative, a solution of integration between CFM’s and MPDC’s systems, was hailed as more than a digital platform launch but a testament to unified aspirations for enhanced customer service and operational efficiency.
The presentations given at the conference emphasized the interdependence of stakeholders within the corridor, and advocated for accelerated digital integration across borders, reflecting a shared commitment to seamless connectivity. Moreover, the imperative of an integrated commercial and strategic vision emerged, positioning the corridor as a holistic service entity rather than disparate transport modes.
The convergence of stakeholders around a common vision promises to realize the port’s potential as a linchpin of regional development. In this spirit of collaboration and foresight, the Port of Maputo sets sail towards a future defined by integration, efficiency, and collective prosperity.
