Transnet unveils new vessel ‘Yarona’ to boost South Africa’s ports

In a significant stride towards modernising South Africa’s port operations, the Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has officially unveiled a state-of-the-art multi-purpose vessel (MPV) named Yarona. Commissioned at the Port of Cape Town, the R120 million vessel—equivalent to approximately £5 million—was built by Damen Shipyards Cape Town, marking a new chapter in local shipbuilding and national maritime capability.

Built for Tough Jobs in Tough Waters

Measuring over 19 metres in length and 8.3 metres wide, the Yarona is designed to undertake a broad range of essential port functions. These include removing marine debris, performing maintenance dredging, repairing quay walls, supporting lighthouse maintenance, and responding to oil spills and pollution incidents.

Constructed with an all-welded steel hull and superstructure, the vessel is built to endure the challenging conditions found in South African harbours, making it a robust and dependable addition to the TNPA fleet.

“Yarona” – A Name with Meaning

The name “Yarona”—meaning “Ours” in Setswana—was chosen through an internal TNPA competition, reflecting a shared sense of pride and unity. During the christening ceremony held at Damen Shipyards, Alice Mene, a finance manager at TNPA, was awarded R10,000 for submitting the winning name.

Beyond the maritime tradition, the ceremony served as a powerful symbol of collaboration and cultural pride within the organisation and the communities it supports.

Part of a Bigger Plan: Transnet’s ‘Reinvent for Growth’ Strategy

According to Solly Letsoalo, Transnet’s Group Chief Operating Officer, the launch of Yarona forms part of the broader “Reinvent for Growth” strategy—an infrastructure-led plan to modernise South Africa’s ports, rail, and pipelines.

“Transnet has emerged from a period of stabilisation, and we’re now entering a growth phase,” Letsoalo said. “This vessel represents our commitment to fleet modernisation and operational efficiency that supports the broader economy.”

Jobs, Skills, and Local Development

Yarona’s construction brought real benefits to the local economy. Over a 14-month build period, the project created 18 new jobs, prioritising young workers and individuals from historically disadvantaged communities. According to Sefale Montsi, Director at Damen Shipyards Cape Town, the vessel is “a testament to building vessels in Africa, for Africa.”

When operational, Yarona will be staffed by a crew of five—three newly recruited TNPA staff and two experienced crew members. This ensures continuity while supporting job creation and skills development within the maritime industry.

A Boost for Cape Town and Beyond

The Yarona joins a wider upgrade of the Port of Cape Town, which has recently seen investments in new tugboats, cranes, and cargo handling equipment. These improvements are expected to reduce vessel turnaround times and increase trade efficiency.

As a key export hub—particularly for fresh fruit, fisheries, and tourism—Cape Town stands to gain significantly from Yarona’s deployment. The vessel will help ensure the port keeps pace with growing global trade demands.

A Glimpse Into the Future of South African Maritime

More than just a vessel, Yarona represents a direction for the future. Its pollution control systems and oil spill response capabilities highlight TNPA’s commitment to sustainability and coastal protection. Its flexibility makes it a valuable asset in managing both routine and emergency port operations.

With Transnet continuing to invest in its marine fleet renewal programme, Yarona is one of several new vessels expected to enhance the performance and reliability of South Africa’s ports in the years ahead.

A Vessel for the Nation

In many ways, Yarona is a symbol of progress—locally built, community-focused, and operationally crucial. From job creation and skills training to port performance and environmental responsibility, this multi-purpose vessel is proof that South Africa is ready to lead in maritime innovation and excellence.

Yarona isn’t just a ship—it’s a step forward for an entire industry and a country with its sights set firmly on the future.