Sogester (Sociedade Gestora de Terminais, S.A.) container terminal in Luanda, Angola (operating since 2007) is a joint venture between APM Terminals (51%) and the Gestor de Fundos of Angola, according to the company's release. In December 2021, the terminal significantly upgraded its equipment with the arrival of 2 new Liebherr mobile harbour cranes (MHC 800 series), the largest terminal cranes available in the region, able to reach 23 rows of containers, compared to 15 or 16 rows reachable by cranes available at other facilities elsewhere in Angola, according to APM Terminals's release.
With this addition, the total number of cranes increases to 3, significantly improving terminal’s productivity.
Larger cranes will also allow the terminal to handle largest vessels calling the port without any restrictions, benefitting all shipping lines. The addition of two cranes comes on top of other equipment purchases in 2021, including terminal trailers and tractors, empty handling equipment and Ram twin lift spreaders, with a total investment value of $25 million.
Apart from equipment, Sogester has also progressed with the implementation of digital solutions at the terminal. During 2022, a new automatic gate software will be installed in Luanda, significantly facilitating the work of truckers who arrive to pick up or drop off containers. “Gate automation is a major milestone reducing queues at gates, allowing truckers to save time and our customers to better plan their cargo flows”, comments Frans Jol.
In addition, a new customer portal will be implemented in the first quarter of 2022, allowing customers to manage all payments, container releases or other transactions directly from their computers, without having to come to the terminal in person.
In parallel with operational improvements, Sogester continues its strong focus on cargo safety, with the upgrade of its terminal security system, which now includes CCTV in the yard and gate.
About APM Terminals
APM Terminals operates one of the world’s most comprehensive port networks. The team of 22,000 industry professionals is focused on delivering the operational excellence and solutions businesses require to reach their potential. The 75 terminals in its global network are operated exclusively by APM Terminals or together with a joint venture partner. This equates to handling around 250 vessel calls per day and 11.5 million moves per year. APM Terminals is part of A.P. Moller -Maersk.