📖 About Durban

Durban is Africa's busiest port and South Africa's largest, handling nearly 60% of the country's container traffic. The Port of Durban is the second-largest container port in Africa (after Port Said in Egypt) and generates more than 60% of Transnet's revenue. The Durban Port Master Plan envisions increasing annual container capacity from 2.9 million to 11 million TEUs over the next 30 years.

Transnet National Ports Authority is investing R3.4 billion in port upgrades, including 20 straddle carriers, 9 rubber-tyred gantry cranes, 4 ship-to-shore cranes, 40 hauliers, and 67 trailers delivered between December 2024 and May 2025. A separate R3.2 billion road infrastructure investment aims to reduce truck congestion and improve operational efficiency around the port.

In a landmark privatization deal, Transnet signed a concession agreement with ICTSI (International Container Terminal Services Inc.) in December 2025 for Container Terminal Pier 2. ICTSI will invest approximately R11 billion ($647 million) over 25 years. The partnership officially commenced January 1, 2026, marking South Africa's first port-privatization deal and signaling recovery from years of efficiency challenges.

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💼 Economy & Culture

Durban's economy centers on its massive port operations, petrochemical industries, tourism, and manufacturing. The port handles automotive exports, commodities, and container shipping for South Africa and landlocked neighbors. Post-privatization reforms aim to restore Durban's competitiveness as a global maritime gateway after years of inefficiency concerns.

Durban's culture reflects its unique blend of Zulu heritage, Indian influence (the largest Indian diaspora in Africa), and colonial history. The city hosts Africa's largest Diwali celebration and is famous for its bunny chow curry. The Golden Mile beaches, subtropical climate, and world-class surfing attract tourists year-round. The Valley of 1000 Hills preserves authentic Zulu traditions just outside the city.

📜 History

Durban was founded in 1835 and named after Sir Benjamin D'Urban, Cape Colony governor. The natural harbor made it South Africa's primary port. Indian indentured laborers arrived from 1860 to work sugar plantations, creating the distinctive Indo-African culture. Mahatma Gandhi began his activism here before returning to India.

Durban's port grew throughout the 20th century as South Africa industrialized. The 2010 FIFA World Cup brought major infrastructure investments including Moses Mabhida Stadium. The 2020s brought focus on port reform and privatization to address congestion and inefficiency. The 2025 ICTSI partnership marks a new era for Africa's largest port.