Khartoum:The head of the Supreme Committee for the International Ports Conference has firmly denied any intention to privatize Sudan's seaports. This statement was made in response to inquiries during the 65th awareness conference organized by the Sudan News Agency, which focused on discussing the International Conference on Seaports. The official emphasized that while some parties have pursued this direction, the highest levels of state policy have rejected such proposals. Discussions at the conference on partnerships are considered proposals that require responsible decisions from the state and its relevant departments.
According to Sudan News Agency, Hassan Jaafar, the Deputy Director General of the Sea Ports Authority and Chairman of the Committee, outlined the conference's focus on four main themes. These include updating handling procedures, addressing infrastructure challenges such as docks and machinery, improving supply chains and trade flow, and reviewing the laws governing these areas.
Jaafar also disclosed plans to transform the Maritime Ports Authority into the "National Maritime Authority" to officially represent the state's maritime interests, pending approval of the study. He addressed concerns about workforce layoffs, assuring that operations remain heavily reliant on human labor, with full automation yet to begin due to the need for extensive studies and funding.
The conference is fully funded by the Maritime Ports Authority, signaling recovery and stability within the institution and the country. Jaafar noted that the ongoing conflict has not damaged port infrastructure but has affected foreign trade due to halted production in Khartoum and the departure of suppliers.
Port activities have resumed robustly, with a "Zero Ship Waiting" policy in place to ensure efficient cargo handling. Plans for future projects include adding a new container berth at the "Green Port" through strategic partnerships and establishing a new port at "Oseif" in collaboration with a Chinese port company, with operations expected to commence by the end of 2027.