Namibia’s ports operator Namport has inaugurated new cargo-handling cranes at Walvis Bay and Lüderitz ports, a key step in modernising the country’s maritime infrastructure.
The authority purchased three new mobile harbour cranes from the global leading manufacturer Liebherr Cranes. At the Port of Walvis Bay, Namibia’s most busy commercial port, the new acquisitions include a 154-ton LHM 550 and an 84-ton LHM 280, both of which are designed to increase cargo handling efficiency and operational reliability.
At the same time, the smaller southern port of Lüderitz has taken delivery of its very first LHM 280 unit. Namport indicated that this crane will increase the port’s ability to handle a range of different cargo, boosting regional trade and economic growth.
Namport referred to the acquisitions as a “significant milestone” in its ongoing fleet modernisation programme. The authority said that the new cranes would minimize service disruptions, boost productivity, and improve ship turnaround times for vessels calling at Namibia’s ports.
“These new Liebherr cranes mark an important step towards fulfilling our commitment to modernise our fleet, radically enhancing operational efficiency and reliability of service,” Namport said in a statement.
The cranes’ arrival is well-timed as Namibia strives to develop its position as a regional maritime hub. It requires high-capacity, modern cranes to handle the larger vessels and higher cargo tonnages that are an increasingly important component of Southern Africa’s shipping mix.
Investment in port infrastructure, the experts say, not only improves the efficiency of operations but also attracts more shipping traffic and stimulates economic activity in port-nearby areas. The move by Namport is expected to boost trade, offer smoother import and export operations, and benefit national economic development.
The authority emphasized that the upgrades are part of a long-term plan to phase in modernising its infrastructure and fleet. With the introduction of high-technology cargo handling machinery, Namport is preparing Namibia’s ports to be competitive, efficient, and capable of managing growing regional and international trade volumes.
These additional cranes will allow Namport to better handle increased cargo volumes without sacrificing high levels of service. This move illustrates Namibia’s commitment to expanding its maritime operations and supporting the country’s long-term economic goals.
