TRANSPORT MINISTER, DULLAR OMAR, TO OFFICIALLY LAUNCH NEW PORTNET AUTHORITY CORPORATE IDENTITY

Issued by Ministry of Transport

22 August 2001

Portnet will tomorrow, August 23rd 2001, unveil a new corporate identity logo and name in a function to be graced and officially launched by Transport Minister Omar and to be witnessed by high powered guests from both public and private sectors – one being Minister Jeff Radebe of Public Enterprises.

Ports play vital roles in all countries. A sizeable amount of business is conducted through this shipping industry. Heavy loads of imports and exports are conducted from local harbours to international harbours, effectively rendering the world a global village – hence Portnet slogan: "The world is closer than you think".

"A port is a barometer of the economy of a country and reflects the state of trade and political trends, this being evident in the increase of cargo volumes since 1994 when South Africa became accepted internationally," said Minister Omar.

This statement is corroborated by current unfolding events, namely;

• South African ports are constantly visited by foreign delegations investigating facilities in port for future investment, import and export of various cargoes, to exchange information. Only this week the ports were visited by Malaysian and Kenyan deltions.
• In South Africa ports are lifeblood of cities, which have become established as a result of the development of a port providing employment and business opportunities for thousands of people. Durban, Cape Town and Port Elizabeth are major South Africaities situated along coastal areas.
• Again South African ports are catalysts to Tourism industry and Sporting activities. Ports which host international cruiseliners attract much needed foreign currency to cities. Coastal accommodation, shipping, surfing and undiluted nature add force this attraction.

"We trust that these developments will contribute towards attaining the sustainable economic growth and development so sorely needed in this wonderful country," added Minister Omar.

In May Portnet attended the 22nd World Conference of the International association of ports and Harbours conference held in Montreal. At this event Portnet learned the ropes of organizing such a magnitude function in preparation of a similar event they will host in Durban come 2003 – this event will be convened for the very first time on the continent of Africa.

In its corporate identity and branding, an organization captures its substance, its personality, its purpose and its values, projecting an image of itself as a coherent unique being, distinctly different from others.

Port Authority believes it has established this and it is what we are celebrating today. Portent has come a long way and it is now embarking upon what is probably its most important voyage.

Issued by
Ndivhuwo Mabaya
National Department of Transport
Media Liaison and Corporate Communications
Tel:012 309 3955/ 012 309 3000
cell:082 926 9379