Port Festivals are a widely celebrated aspect of South African ports and – in a bid to reintegrate the ports with their communities – Transnet National Ports Authority is once more rolling out these action-packed events across the country’s ports. The latest such event – the Cape Town Port Festival – will be a two-day event running over a long weekend from Saturday, 30 April to Sunday, 01 May in and around the Port of Cape Town.

TNPA Chief Executive Richard Vallihu said: “It’s been well documented in recent months that we as the port authority are pursuing the concept of ‘smart people’s ports’ with a focus on development as well as technology. To us, progressive and sustainable ports are those that co-exist and evolve with the communities where the commercial ports are. The developmental outcomes enshrined in our Transnet Market Demand Strategy are geared towards uplifting our communities and developing requisite mission critical skills to take this country to another level. These port festivals therefore offer a platform and a workable solution to make our ports community friendly and to expose the public to the opportunities available in this sector, but in a fun and innovative way.”

He said plans are afoot to open the ports up to promote tourism, leisure, recreation, career and business opportunities and community engagement. The first port festival in more than 10 years kicked off last year, with a launch in one of the country’s major port cities – Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. It saw thousands of people flock to the Port of Richards Bay to enjoy naval vessel tours, water sports, ocean activities, kids’ entertainment and live performances by a host of South African artists and DJs.

TNPA’s Cape Town Port Manager Sipho Nzuza, said the Cape Town Port Festival would bring wholesome fun to the community, while making the port accessible once again. 

“With the introduction of the ISPS code of safety and security for ports, the people and the ports have – over time – become separate entities. We want the communities around our ports to feel a sense of belonging and ownership. The two-day Cape Town Port Festival promises fun for the whole family, the full details of which will be revealed in the coming weeks.”

From 30 April – 01 May, port-goers can mingle with celebrities, visit craft stands, dance along to some of South Africa’s top DJs, enjoy a picnic with loved ones or indulge in the numerous waterside and landside activities on offer.
Entry to the festival is free. Festivities will run from 10h00 until 20h00 on Saturday, 30 April and from 10h00 until 17h00 on Sunday 1 May. Activities will take place at A Berth and Duncan Dock. Watch the press and social media for further details.