WALVIS BAY – The Namibia Ports Authority (Namport) marked its 30th anniversary with a celebration of achievements and a reaffirmation of its role in Namibia’s economic growth and global trade.

Established in 1994, Namport has experienced remarkable growth over the past 30 years, with its asset base expanding from N$93 million to N$6.9 billion. 

The workforce increased from 318 to 820 employees, while revenue surged from N$57 million to N$1.7 billion. Operating profit also saw a significant rise from N$14 million to N$650 million. Container throughput increased from 20000 to 171000 TEUs, peaking at 330000 in 2012, and bulk cargo volumes grew from 1.7 million tonnes to over 8 million tonnes annually. These figures were shared by Namport CEO Andrew Kanime as they celebrated and reflected on Namport’s significance to Namibia.

Over the past three decades, Namport has expanded its operations, and established itself as a key player in Africa’s maritime industry.

The Port of Walvis Bay’s history dates back to 1487 when it was discovered by explorer Bartholomeu Diaz. 

After periods of British and South African control, Walvis Bay was reintegrated into Namibia on 1 March 1994, four years after the country’s independence.

During the celebration, Kanime acknowledged the workforce’s contributions to the organisation’s success.

“Together, we have built a strong foundation and a solid institution, anchored in our values of caring, connected, committed, collaborative, and creative. It is important that we continue to stand together as the Namport family as we nurture Namport for another 30 years of growth and prosperity,” he said.

Reflecting on the past three decades, Kanime described the journey as both challenging and exciting. 

“It has been a long, yet exciting 30 years since incorporation. Over these years, we have grown significantly,” he added, sharing key highlights of Namport’s progress since 1994.

He also highlighted the importance of the ports to Namibia and the Southern African region, especially after Walvis Bay’s reintegration in 1994.

“Over these 30 years, Namport has not only grown in size, but also in reputation. We have established ourselves as a key player in the maritime industry within our region and beyond,” Kanime noted.

Looking to the future, he  outlined Namport’s vision for further expansion, and its commitment to remaining competitive in the global maritime industry. He emphasised the importance of partnerships and investments in infrastructure, equipment, systems, and personnel.

“By shifting to a landlord model, we will actively pursue partnerships to develop and acquire adequate port infrastructure to meet the growing needs of our port users,” he stated.

He also mentioned the concessioning of the new container terminal, and the planned dredging of the Walvis Bay entrance channel, which will significantly increase vessel-handling capacity.

“With the concession, we look forward to a significant increase in volumes, vessel calls,, and the size of vessels. This will be crucial for enhancing our connectivity, competitiveness and appeal to customers locally and regionally,” Kanime said.