The R330 million Nelson Mandela Cruise Terminal in South Africa’s main port of Durban today was officially inaugurated by President Cyril Ramaphosa ahead of the start of South Africa’s 2023-24 cruise season.
Crafted by MSC Cruises and their black economic empowerment partner, the African Armada Consortium, the Nelson Mandela Cruise Terminal is a testament to the first public-private partnership in South Africa's cruise industry. Operated by the venture known as KwaZulu Cruise Terminal Limited in collaboration with Transnet National Ports Authority, this energy-efficient 6,000 square metre terminal boasts a daily capacity to welcome 4,000 passengers.
Not only a marvel in design, but the terminal also played a significant role in local job creation. The project generated 10,000 construction jobs, predominantly sourced from Durban and other regions in South Africa. This initiative underscores the commitment to fostering economic growth and opportunities within the community.
Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of MSC Cruises, expressed gratitude for the privilege of using Nelson Mandela's name for this gateway to the Zulu Kingdom. The terminal opens doors for passengers from over 100 nationalities, offering them a unique experience on board and the chance to explore beautiful destinations like Portugeuse Island and Pomene in Mozambique.
A groundbreaking public-private partnership conceptualized a decade ago has now come to fruition, supporting the expansion of South African cruise tourism. This terminal is poised to be a welcoming hub for cruise companies worldwide, solidifying South Africa's presence on the global cruise map.
MSC Group, the world's largest container shipping company, has been a stalwart in South Africa for over 50 years. Beyond the terminal, MSC Group's Shosholoza Academy, established in 2019, is actively contributing to the local community by educating and training young talents in hospitality skills, benefiting both MSC Cruises and the larger tourism industry.
The impact of MSC Group extends beyond the terminal, with more than one million MSC containers passing through South African ports annually. The Shosholoza Academy's efforts will soon see 5,000 new crew members joining MSC Cruises' vessels, further contributing to the nation's economic growth.
As part of its commitment to the nation's tourism industry, MSC Cruises operates an international customer call centre in Johannesburg. Serving both MSC Cruises and luxury cruise sister company Explora Journeys, the call centre caters to passengers in South Africa, the USA, and the UK, with plans for future growth to service other global markets.
The inauguration of the Nelson Mandela Cruise Terminal is a significant leap forward for South Africa's cruise industry. As the local cruise season kicks off, we look forward to the positive impact this milestone will have on the nation's tourism, economy, and employment opportunities. Bon voyage!
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