Port equipment boosts remote island
One of the world’s most remote inhabited islands has strengthened its maritime lifeline with the delivery of new cargo-handling equipment to the Port of Saint Helena at Rupert’s Bay.
International equipment supplier Forkliftcenter has delivered a new Kalmar Reachstacker, a MAFI terminal tractor, trailers and associated accessories to the South Atlantic island, located around 1,200 miles from the African mainland.
The project was funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and completed in partnership with Namibia-based Right Equipped Solutions, Forkliftcenter’s official Southern African partner.
“St Helena represents the 150th country to receive equipment from Forkliftcenter, making this a particularly proud moment for our team,” said Adriaan Vos, managing director Americas at Forkliftcenter.
“Working alongside Right Equipped Solutions and the Government of St Helena, we have shown how strong partnerships can overcome even the most remote logistical challenges.”
Saint Helena relies heavily on monthly container shipments carrying food, fuel and essential supplies, making reliable port operations critical to the community’s resilience. The previous reachstackers had become increasingly unreliable, raising concerns about the port’s ability to handle vital cargo efficiently.
The equipment was transported to the island by Global Shipping Center and assembled on site by Right Equipped Solutions. Technicians worked alongside local port control and government garage teams to commission the machinery, provide maintenance support and deliver operator training.
“Delivering equipment to one of the world’s most remote islands requires trusted partnerships, technical expertise and long-term commitment,” said Henner Rodenwoldt, managing member of Right Equipped Solutions.
“We are proud to have worked alongside Forkliftcenter and the Government of St Helena to deliver a solution that will strengthen St Helena’s port operations and support the island’s future growth.”