The Port of Maputo has seen significant growth, with an $800-million investment resulting in a remarkable increase in its handling capacity. Grindrod CEO Xolani Mbambo shared that the port's handling capacity has surged from five million tons in 2007 to a record 27 million tons in the previous year. Over the recent five-year period, $200 million has been invested in the port's expansion.

This positive development at the Maputo port comes as South Africa's rail and port infrastructure struggles to meet rising demand. Mbambo emphasized that private sector investment and the Mozambican government's trust in private sector participation have played a crucial role in the success of projects like the Port of Maputo.

Grindrod, a ports, terminals, and logistics operator, is a shareholder in the Maputo Port Development Company alongside DP World, the State-owned rail operator CFM, and local partners. Mbambo highlighted the growing trend in Africa to involve private players in traditionally State-owned logistics assets, especially in East Africa.

Mbambo considered East Africa an exciting region for Grindrod due to its strong economic growth. He noted Grindrod's involvement, along with a European partner, in the bidding process for the Durban Container Terminal concession. However, the European partner withdrew due to perceived risks associated with the South African project.

Grindrod reported a 32% increase in revenue from core operations in the reviewed six-month period compared to the same period last year, amounting to R3.8 billion. Noncore operations generated revenue of R7.2 billion. The company is focused on seizing new opportunities and has a R1.9 billion project pipeline spanning 2023 to 2025, covering various commodities. Grindrod is also working on diversifying its revenue sources by moving away from coal and towards more environmentally friendly commodities such as lithium and graphite.