NAMIBE

  • AOMSZ
  • Latitude: -15.1925
  • Longitude: 12.1315
  • West Africa
  • Port in Angola

Location: Angola

Namibe, also known as Moçâmedes, is an important port city located in southwestern Angola along the Atlantic Ocean. The port plays a significant role in the economic landscape of Angola, facilitating the import and export of various goods and commodities. Below is a detailed description and specification of the Port of Namibe:

General Information

  • Country: Angola
  • Location: Southwestern coast of Angola, along the Atlantic Ocean.
  • Coordinates: Approximately 15° 11' S latitude and 12° 9' E longitude.
  • UN/LOCODE: AO MSZ

Port Facilities and Infrastructure

  • Terminal Types:

    • Cargo Terminals: Handling general cargo, bulk cargo, and containerized cargo.
    • Oil and Gas Terminals: Facilities for handling oil and gas products, a key component of Angola's economy.
    • Fishing Terminals: Supported by local fisheries, contributing to the regional economy.
  • Berths & Quays:

    • Number of Berths: Several dedicated berths for various types of cargo including containers, bulk goods, and liquid cargo.
    • Berth Lengths: Ranges to accommodate different sizes of vessels.
    • Water Depth: Suitable depths to handle medium to large-sized vessels.
  • Storage Facilities:

    • Warehouses: Available for temporary storage of goods.
    • Open-Yard Storage: For bulk and oversized cargo.
    • Cold Storage: Facilities to store perishable commodities, primarily seafood products.

Operational Capabilities

  • Cargo Handling Equipment:

    • Cranes: Mobile cranes, container cranes, and gantry cranes for loading and unloading.
    • Forklifts, Tractors, and Trailers: For internal cargo movement.
    • Conveyors and Pipelines: For efficient handling of bulk and liquid goods.
  • Automation and IT Systems:

    • Implementation of port management systems for efficient operations.
    • Tracking and scheduling systems to monitor cargo movements.

Connectivity and Hinterland Access

  • Roadways: Well-connected to regional road networks facilitating inland transportation of goods.
  • Railways: Links to national railway lines that connect to other parts of Angola and neighboring countries.
  • Air Transport: Proximity to local airports for expedited deliveries and connectivity.

Services Offered

  • Pilotage and Towage: Available to guide ships safely into and out of the port.
  • Bunkering Services: Fueling services for vessels.
  • Ship Repair and Maintenance: Basic facilities for vessel repair and emergency services.
  • Customs and Inspections: Efficient customs processing for faster cargo clearance.

Economic and Strategic Importance

  • Economic Hub: Acts as a key trading hub, facilitating international trade.
  • Exports: Including minerals, fish products, and agricultural products.
  • Imports: Machinery, food products, and construction materials.
  • Employment: Provides significant employment opportunities within the region.

Environmental and Safety Standards

  • Environmental Programs: Initiatives in place to minimize pollution and protect marine life.
  • Safety Protocols: Strict adherence to international safety and security standards.

Challenges and Developments

  • Challenges: May include infrastructure upgrades, capacity expansion, and modernization efforts.
  • Recent Developments: Efforts in upgrading port facilities, implementing new technology, and expanding capacity to handle increasing volumes of cargo.

The Port of Namibe is crucial for Angola's import and export activities and serves as a pivotal point for the country's maritime trade. Continuous improvements and investments are vital to ensuring the port meets international standards and remains competitive in the global market.

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