Transport and Logistics: Investments in the Port of Maputo

Paulo Mata, Port Authority Director, gives his assessment and outlook for the sector and discusses investments in the Port of Maputo.

“The port sector has grown quite considerably over the last 40 years, since Mozambique’s Independence. Market demand has led to huge investments in infrastructure, catering first and foremost to the mining industry and the oil and gas industry. Over the past years, we have focused on building this key infrastructure to serve our hinterland, around the ports of Maputo, Beira and Nacala. Considerable investment has also been made within the port area”, says Paulo Mata.

“The Port of Maputo has 113 years of existence and was previously run by CFM (Mozambican Ports and Railways). This was the first concession given to a private entity, in 2003, set to last until 2033, with the option of a 10-year extension. When we were granted the concession, the Port of Maputo had an initial plan of investing around $ 56 million, mainly to upgrade the infrastructure in place. Investments were made to improve the internal railway, upgrade existing berths and roads, as well as refurbish certain warehouses. There was also investment in equipment, with the acquisition of tugs, as well as the dredging of the channel. One important aspect worth mentioning is that, just five years into the term of the concession, the port had already invested around $ 475 million, which went way beyond what was initially expected”, he adds.