The Namibian Ports Authority (Namport) has commissioned three new mobile harbour cranes to enhance its cargo-handling capacity.
The cranes, manufactured by Liebherr Cranes, include two LHM 550 models with a lifting capacity of 154 tonnes each, and one smaller LHM 280 crane with a capacity of 84 tonnes.
Two of the machines will operate at the Port of Walvis Bay, while the third has already been delivered to the Port of Lüderitz, where it is now in service.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony at Walvis Bay on Wednesday, Namport chief executive Andrew Kanime said the investment would strengthen the country’s position as a regional logistics hub.
“These cranes represent not just an acquisition of new equipment, but a significant leap in our journey to modernise operations, minimise breakdowns, and fulfil our customer promise,” he said.
The new cranes feature semi-automated operations, intelligent load management, precise handling, and real-time diagnostics, enabling Namport to handle both standard and complex cargo with greater speed, safety, and efficiency.
Kanime said the addition brings Namport’s mobile harbour crane fleet to nine, in addition to two Liebherr reach stackers already in operation across Namibia’s ports.
The expanded fleet is expected to increase cranage capacity at both Walvis Bay and Lüderitz, improve operational efficiency, and enhance service delivery to clients.
Namport has previously struggled with frequent breakdowns of its ageing equipment, which caused service disruptions.
The latest development follows other major improvements, such as the dredging exercise at Walvis Bay, which deepened and widened the entrance channel. This allows the port to accommodate larger vessels at berths one, two, and three, boosting both cargo operations and ship repair services.
Beyond port infrastructure, Kanime emphasised the need for improvements across the wider logistics value chain.
About one third of cargo handled by Namibian ports is cross-border trade, with 95% transported by road and only 5% by rail.
Kanime therefore welcomed government plans to upgrade the rail network and establish new links with Botswana and Zambia.
Liebherr Africa’s head of sales, Darren Jankelow, praised Namport for its long-standing partnership with the company, which dates back to 1997.
“Almost three decades later, Namport now operates nine LHMs and two reach stackers across Namibia, an impressive feat that secures the sustainability and growth of its operations,” Jankelow said. – Nampa
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