South Africa’s drive to modernise its freight network gained significant momentum with the official launch of the R20 billion Insimbi Ridge Logistics Precinct at Cato Ridge in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN).
The new development is situated 52 km from Durban Port. It is the country’s first large-scale, privately funded inter-modal freight-corridor project, expected to commence operations in 2027.
The precinct is developed by Assore SA PropCo and the Rail Development Corporation (RDC). Its core function is to boost inland capacity, relieving pressure on the Durban Port and the N3 corridor.
It will connect directly to the N3 highway and the national rail network via a planned 1.7 km private siding from Cato Ridge Station. RDC Director Sibusisiwe Nodada called it “rail reform made real,” linking port, rail, and road in one controlled node.
Critical Cold Chain for Agriculture
The project’s most vital component for the national economy is the specialized infrastructure dedicated to exports. Private port terminal operator FPT Group (FPT) is the anchor tenant for Phase 1.
Construction has begun on the essential FPT cold store and warehouse. This facility is critical for handling temperature-sensitive perishable goods.
TLG CEO Anton Potgieter stressed the facility’s role in supporting citrus growers. South Africa is the second-largest citrus exporter in the world, and this hub is crucial for managing the projected 15% to 20% growth in production and ensuring efficient export.
Economic Impact and Private Capital
The development is designated a provincial and municipal catalytic project. Assore SA Deputy CEO Tiaan van Aswegen noted it proves that private capital is prepared to deliver structural reform without burdening the fiscus.
Over its lifespan, the precinct is expected to create up to 10,000 jobs across construction, logistics, and manufacturing, prioritising local labour in the KwaXimba Traditional Council area.
As the first provincially designated freight node under Strategic Integrated Project 2 (the Durban-Gauteng corridor), it directly supports the Transnet R90 billion Port of Durban expansion and the National Freight Logistics Roadmap. KZN MEC Musa Zondi emphasised, “Every container that moves more efficiently through this corridor is not just cargo, but it is confidence.”
The R20 billion Insimbi Ridge Logistics Precinct is a significant, forward-looking investment that goes beyond logistics. By prioritising a major cold store and warehouse, the privately funded hub directly supports the growth and global competitiveness of the citrus export industry. Strategically relieving pressure on Durban Port and the N3, the project serves as a concrete blueprint for how private capital can deliver essential structural reform, creating jobs and instilling renewed confidence in KZN’s capacity to deliver efficient export services for decades to come.