KOTUG Begins Operations in Mozambique
KOTUG Mozambique has begun exclusive port and terminal towage services with two Rotortugs in the new port of Nacala-a-Velha in northern Mozambique for Nacala Development Corridor (CDN), effective May 5, 2016.
The RT Magic and RT Spirit welcomed the largest bulk carrier Shining Dragon, to assist her safely to her berth. The Rotortugs, pioneered by KOTUG and featuring three separate azimuth propulsion units to provide improved vessel safety, power and maneuverability, were selected by CDN to optimize turn-around time and to have minimum tugs needed per ship assistance.
The bay of Nacala contains two ports: a general cargo port in Nacala and a greenfield coal terminal in Nacala-a-Velha. The coal terminal is at the end of a newly developed rail line of 912km, which transports coal from the mining province of Tete, through Malawi to the Indian Ocean (Mozambique channel), the Nacala corridor. KOTUG said it will provide exclusive towage services to both ports.
KOTUG’s CEO, Ard-Jan Kooren, commented, “KOTUG considers this contract as an important breakthrough to diversify in the energy resource sector, to provide first class towage services for an outstanding coal terminal and to set a long term strategic position in Mozambique and for the East African market.”
“Moreover, it is again a milestone in our global footprint and will bring substantial commercial value to our business,” Kooren said.