Daily Maverick reports that the latest World Bank port index flags Southern Africa’s, and Transnet’s, declining container-port performance, while also noting early signs of recovery. The piece frames the findings as a mixed picture: a period of sustained underperformance followed by improvement indicators.
By Ed Stoddard – Daily Maverick
According to the article, Transnet data show vessel anchorage times at South African ports fell by about 75% between mid-2024 and August 2025. The report also references better operational productivity, including gains in gross crane moves.
The index outcome still places the region on the back foot, underscoring how far Southern Africa has to go to reach competitive benchmarks. Yet the rebound signals suggest that operational changes are starting to have an effect. For defence and security readers, the takeaway is straightforward: port reliability affects supply chains, project timelines and readiness. The article points to a trajectory that remains challenging but is improving as congestion eases and turnaround times shorten.
