Sociedade de Desenvolvimento do Porto de Maputo (MPDC) has renewed its maritime services contract with P&O Maritime Logistics, a leading international supplier of maritime solutions, according to a note from the company sent to our newsroom.

Through its subsidiary company, P&O Maritime Moçambique S.A., it has played a vital role in pilotage, tugboat and mooring operations in the Port of Maputo since 2012. This contract renewal guarantees stability and continuous improvement until 2033, covering another decade of collaboration.

According to the note, under the terms of the agreement, P&O Maritime Logistics will invest around 14 million dollars in the acquisition of state-of-the-art, environmentally-friendly vessels designed to increase operational efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.

The partnership reflects shared ambitions for a sustainable and innovative transformation in the maritime sector, driven by a commitment to shaping a low-carbon future.
A notable milestone of this renewed contract, the document indicates, is the implementation of an integrated tugboat and bridge simulator, adapted to the specific needs of operations in the ports of Maputo and Matola.

This simulator, when installed at the Port of Maputo, will play a crucial role in the assessment, training and continuous improvement of tugboat pilots and bar pilots who have to navigate a range of challenging weather conditions and emergency scenarios.

In addition, ships arriving at the port will have the opportunity to be assessed on the simulator before they actually arrive, further increasing safety and efficiency.

In an innovative move, the simulator will also be used as a "training ground" for young cadets from the Nautical School, as part of P&O Maritime Logistics' training memorandum with the Nautical School.

"The maritime simulator is expected to be fully operational by the end of the first half of 2024, further improving the safety and efficiency of the Port of Maputo," the document reads.

Since 2014, 45 young Mozambicans from the Nautical School have been trained abroad, gained valuable experience at sea on board P&O Maritime Logistics ships, and then returned to Maputo to contribute their knowledge, promoting the maritime profession in Mozambique.

With a continued dedication to nurturing the growth of today's young talent, P&O Maritime Logistics offers internship programs in safety, information technology and human resources, providing practical on-the-job training.

A significant number of these talented Mozambicans secure full-time employment opportunities with the company, contributing to the sustainable growth of the local economy.
The renewal of the contract with P&O Maritime Moçambique S.A. reflects MPDC's unwavering commitment to ensuring that the Port of Maputo continues to be a beacon of safety, quality and efficiency for both users and shipping companies.

This, in turn, plays a decisive role in the economic growth not only of Mozambique, but also of the entire region. "MPDC looks forward to continuing this productive partnership and the opportunity to further promote maritime excellence and sustainable development in the region," the document concludes.