International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI) has earmarked more than $100-million for the second phase expansion of its Congolese subsidiary, Matadi Gateway Terminal (MGT), in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
Expected to commence by 2020, MGT’s second phase development represents ICTSI’s efforts to strengthen Matadi’s position as DRC’s most efficient and cost-competitive gateway, and promote even lower shipping rates in the region.
Among the upgrades are the expansion of the quay from 375 meters to over 500 meters, and the doubling of the terminal’s yard area to 10.5 hectares.
When completed, MGT will be capable of simultaneously servicing two WAFMAX class vessels. The expansion grants the terminal substantial flexibility to optimize container capacity, stacking, and clearance/drop-off arrangements.
On the equipment side, a third Kone mobile harbor crane—now on order—will soon be installed to provide the ability to turn a 2,500-TEU capacity vessel in under 12 hours.
In the pipeline are DR Congo’s first pair of ship-to-shore (STS) gantry cranes, expected to optimize vessel turnaround times; new landside yard handling equipment; and the latest IT systems for optimized terminal operations.
Located 92 miles upstream of the Congo River, Matadi has the natural advantage of being the closest port to the capital Kinshasa, offering the lowest inland transport cost that greatly benefit cargo owners.
