ARTICLE AMMENDED: Lekala became the first black Harbour Master in the Port of East London in 2002 and not 2022 as previously stated in the article. He was appointed Chief Harbour Master of TNPA in 2011, not 2021.

THE Chief Harbour Master at Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA), Captain Rufus Lekala, returned to UKZN after four years to graduate with a Master of Commerce in Maritime Studies degree.

Lekala’s career had humble beginnings as a taxi driver in Pretoria. He later joined Transnet, serving as a Tug Master in the Port of Cape Town before becoming a Marine Pilot in the Port of Saldanha Bay.

In 2002, he became the first black Harbour Master in the Port of East London and later served in the same role in Cape Town and Durban before he was appointed Chief Harbour Master of TNPA in 2011. He currently serves as Acting Managing Executive at TNPA, where his responsibilities include ensuring safe navigation, port efficiency and regulatory compliance.

Also read: Honour for best in maritime studies bring waves of change

“As a coastal country with major ports, our ability to manage maritime operations efficiently directly influences economic growth, job creation and global competitiveness. My professional journey has deepened my appreciation of how strategic maritime leadership can drive national development,” Lekala said.

Reflecting on his latest academic success, he said: “This achievement represents not only personal growth, but also my commitment to lifelong learning and contributing meaningfully to the maritime industry.”

For more from Berea Mail, follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.

Click to subscribe to our newsletter – here