With experience spanning a decade in the marine operations sector, Transnet’s Dredge Master, Ms Samantha Shadrach, has graduated with a Master of Commerce in Maritime Studies cum laude.
“I pursued this qualification because I wanted to deepen my understanding of port infrastructure, logistics, and sustainable maritime development—and ultimately contribute more meaningfully to the future of South Africa’s ports,” Shadrach said.
“Graduating cum laude is a proud milestone that reflects perseverance, continuous learning, and the value of combining real-world professional experience with academic excellence.”
Supervised by Dr Sanele Gumede and Dr Nkanyiso Wethington Nxumalo, Shadrach’s study titled: ‘Dredging for Giants: Global Lessons for Transnet’s Container Ports’ -investigated whether the ports of Durban, Ngqura, and Cape Town are equipped to handle the rapid shift towards larger and more modern container vessels.
Her research demonstrated how insufficient berth depth remains a major operational issue, particularly at the Port of Durban. Furthermore, the study showed how Transnet’s existing dredging capabilities are focused on routine maintenance rather than the proactive, capital-intensive dredging required to deepen channels for the ultra-large ships.
“This research carries direct economic and societal relevance,” Shadrach said. “Reliable port access underpins national trade, supply-chain continuity, job creation, and global competitiveness. My work highlights how dredging shouldn’t be viewed merely as a technical task; it is a strategic investment that must carefully balance economic growth with environmental responsibility and social sustainability.”
Shadrach benchmarked South Africa’s key container hubs against world-leading maritime ports in Rotterdam, Singapore, and Dubai. Her research provides actionable recommendations for Transnet which include improved governance, procurement, technology, long-term planning, and performance monitoring to support safer, more efficient, and sustainable port development.
Reflecting on her academic journey at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), Shadrach highlighted the impact of the experience on her career: “My time at UKZN was challenging, rewarding, and truly transformative. The programme strengthened my critical-thinking abilities and research skills while giving me a much broader, strategic perspective on the global maritime industry.”
Words: Thandiwe Jumo
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini
