EAST LONDON– The Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has officially begun construction on the long-awaited revitalisation of the iconic Latimer’s Landing Jetty at Latimers Cafe, East London on 21 October 2025 marking a new era for the Port of East London and its surrounding communities.
With a price tag over R130 million, this project is set to spark economic growth, create jobs and put the Eastern Cape on the tourism map.
Port Manager of the port of East London, Phiwe Mthembu, said the team is committed to completing it on time and within budget, making every rand count for the region’s development.
In addition Mthembu said that, “This development is about more than infrastructure. It’s about reconnecting the port to the communities, linking the city to its waterfront and boosting tourism across the Buffalo City Metro. Once complete, it will serve as a vibrant attraction for both residents and visitors,” he said.
The revitalisation plan will replace the old wooden jetty with a modern concrete deck on pile structure, while keeping the charm of the original design through wooden cladding. Visitors walking on the jetty will still see water flowing beneath their feet, enjoying uninterrupted views of the Buffalo River and the port’s maritime activity.
East London residents and visitors will be able to interact with port operations, enjoy meals at the waterfront and experience one of only eight ports in the country open to the public. The jetty is expected to reopen in April 2027, promising a vibrant new destination where history, modern design and tourism come together.
At the sod-turning ceremony, TNPA Acting Chief Executive, Phyllis Difeto said that the project comes at a vital moment for both the Port of East London and Transnet’s long-term vision. She explained that it represents a major step forward for South Africa’s logistics sector and will help stimulate the Eastern Cape’s economy by promoting industries that create greater local value and opportunity.
MEC for Eastern Cape Department of Transport and Community Safety, Xolile Nqatha said that, “We are confident that these developments will position Buffalo City Metro as a globally competitive city. This project is about creating jobs, unlocking our natural resources and giving hope to communities that have long been left behind,” said MEC Nqatha.
MEC Nqatha added by saying,“This ceremony, held during Transport Month, highlights how critical transportation is to our province’s growth. We are excited to be part of this landmark waterfront project at the Port of East London and look forward to the economic opportunities it will unlock for our people,” he said.
In conclusion, Executive Director of Border Kei Chamber of Business, Lizelle Maurice said that, “This is a very exciting moment for the city of East London. Latimer’s Landing is a key part of our tourism offering and its development will unlock economic opportunities while strengthening the city’s appeal to visitors. We hope to see cruise liners docking here in the future and we look forward to showcasing the full potential of our city to the rest of the world. We wish TNPA and the project team all the best as this initiative unfolds,” said Maurice.
Furthermore, with construction now underway, Latimer’s Landing is poised to become a landmark destination that blends history, modern design and tourism.
The project not only promises to create jobs and boost the local economy, but also to reconnect the community with the port and showcase East London on a global stage.
Photographs: supplied
