SANDF will grant public access to navy ships stationed in and around the Port of Port Elizabeth. The vessel tours will be the highlight of a week of activities that form part of the SANDF’s Armed Forces Day celebration, which is commemorated on 21 February to coincide with the commemoration of the sinking of the SS Mendi in 1917 during World War One.
Transnet will also be setting up an exhibition centre from Saturday 13 to Tuesday 16 February in order to showcase the career opportunities that are available in the Maritime Sector. The exhibition centre will be located at Shed 12, next to Quay 2 and 3, at the Multi-Purpose Terminal.
Port manager Rajesh Dana said TNPA was partnering with organisations in the maritime sector in an effort to reintegrate the ports with their cities and communities. "The Port of Port Elizabeth is extremely honoured and privileged to have been invited to be part of the SANDF Armed Forces Day celebrations. The port has planned a jam-packed, fun-filled weekend and invites the public to experience the exciting naval and maritime world,” he said.
"Transnet has welcomed the opportunity of hosting several SA Navy vessels in the Port of Port Elizabeth which will be open to public viewing. This historic event affords the Port of Port Elizabeth the opportunity of showcasing its commitment to and progress made in transforming the Port of Port Elizabeth into a people-centric smartPORT".
Dana said events such as Armed Forces Day were particularly important considering the South African government’s Operation Phakisa initiative, in which TNPA is a key role player.
In launching Operation Phakisa, Government set out its first project focusing on unlocking the immense economic potential of the Oceans Economy. This it hopes will boost GDP growth, job creation and employment within the marine transport sector, aligned with the priorities of the National Development Plan.
Navy vessels set to be in port during the Armed Forces Day celebrations include SAS PROTEA (hydrographic survey vessel), SAS DRAKENSBERG (combat support ship), SAS AMATOLA (Valour Class frigate), SAS QUEEN MODJADJI 1 (Type 209 submarine), SAS GALESHEWE (offshore patrol vessel) and SAS UMHLOTI (MCM). The six vessels will be stationed alongside quay 3 in the Port of Port Elizabeth.
All vessels will be open to the general public over Valentine’s weekend of 13 to 14 February while pre-arranged special tours will take place from 15 to 16 February. Entry for adults and children is free.
Operating times to view the ships will be from 10am to 2pm on Saturday. Get there early as long queues are expected and gates will close at 2pm. The SAS QUEEN MODJADJI 1 submarine will only be open to the public from 10am to 12pm on both days.
Public access to the port will be via the Fleming Gate on Fleming Street (take the turn off from Settlers Highway). There will be public parking for approximately 500 vehicles with parking escorts from the SANDF, TNPA and SAPS on hand to direct members of the public.
Attendees are encouraged to take along umbrellas to ensure they are comfortable while queuing. There will also be food vendors located in various areas around the port.
On 21 February President Jacob Zuma, in his capacity as commander-in-chief of the SANDF, will officiate this fifth installation of Armed Forces Day. He will confer medals on deserving SANDF members at a restricted presidential function aboard one of the vessels.
