NACALA

• MZMNC
• Latitude: -14.5415
• Longitude: 40.6675
• East Africa
• Port in Mozambique

Location: Nacala Mozambique

Port of Nacala (Nacala-à-Velha), Mozambique

Location: Nacala port, also known as the Port of Nacala, is situated in Nacala-à-Velha and Nacala Porto in Mozambique. It lies in the northern part of the country along the coast of the Indian Ocean.

Geographical Coordinates: Latitude: 14°28′ S Longitude: 40°41′ E

General Description: The Port of Nacala is the deepest natural port in Southeast Africa and one of the largest in the region. It serves as an important gateway for Mozambique and surrounding landlocked countries such as Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. The port handles a mixture of containerized cargo, bulk grains, coal, fuel, and other general cargo. It also supports fishing and is equipped to handle passenger vessels.

Key Specifications and Facilities:

1. Draft and Depth:

   • The port has a deep natural water depth, making it accessible to large vessels.
   • Outer channels have depths ranging from about 15 to 20 meters.
   • Inner channels and berths maintain depths of 10 to 15 meters, accommodating large cargo and container ships.

2. Berths and Quays:

   • Multiple berths for different kinds of cargo, including dedicated terminals for containers, bulk, and liquid cargoes.
   • Specific quay lengths and varying drafts at each berth can accommodate various ship sizes.

3. Container Terminal:

   • Equipped with modern gantry cranes and other cargo-handling equipment.
   • Storage facilities that include container yards and warehouses for efficient cargo handling and storage.
   • Advanced logistics and electronic data interchange (EDI) systems for seamless operations.

4. Bulk Cargo Facilities:

   • Specialized equipment for handling bulk commodities such as grain, coal, and minerals.
   • Relevant storage such as silos for grains and designated yards for coal and minerals.

5. Liquid Cargo Terminals:

   • Dedicated terminals for handling liquid cargo like petroleum products and chemicals.
   • Pipelines and storage tanks in place for safe and efficient operations.

6. Rail and Road Connectivity:

   • Connected to the Nacala Railway Corridor, an important rail line linking the port to the inland regions and neighboring countries.
   • Good road connectivity for overland transportation to and from the port.

7. Support Services:

   • Ship repair and maintenance facilities, including a dry dock.
   • Tug services, pilotage, and navigational aids ensuring safe navigation and berthing operations.
   • Customs, immigration, and other essential port services available 24/7.
   • Fueling and provisioning facilities.

Economic and Strategic Importance:

• The Port of Nacala is critical for international trade in the region, facilitating exports and imports.
• Vital for the transport of coal from mines in the interior of Mozambique to global markets.
• Strategic for regional development and enhancement of the logistics network in Southeast Africa.

Development and Expansion:

• Continuous upgrades and expansions in infrastructure to boost capacity and efficiency.
• Investments from both Mozambique and international entities aiming to transform Nacala into a major logistics and trade hub in Africa.

This combination of deep natural waters, comprehensive facilities, and strategic location make the Port of Nacala an indispensable asset for Mozambique and neighboring countries.