Key Points
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Transnet and Tshipi É Ntle sign 10-year MECA3 deal.
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Agreement secures long-term manganese rail and port capacity.
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Partnership aims to strengthen South Africa’s mining competitiveness.
South Africa’s state-owned rail company Transnet has signed a new 10-year agreement with Tshipi É Ntle, one of the country’s biggest manganese miners. The deal, announced Wednesday, secures long-term rail and port export capacity for the Tshipi Borwa mine in the Northern Cape.
The contract forms part of the third-phase Manganese Export Capacity Allocation (MECA3) program, which guarantees transport volumes for manganese producers.
Officials said the move will help South Africa maintain its role in global supply chains while boosting local economic growth.
This is the latest in a string of agreements. In July, Transnet signed similar deals with United Manganese of Kalahari, followed in August by an agreement with Hotazel Manganese Mines.
Tshipi É Ntle sees growth certainty
For Tshipi É Ntle, the agreement provides stability to expand operations and meet rising international demand.
Chief Executive Ezekiel Lotlhare described the deal as part of a long-standing partnership that has supported the mine’s growth for more than a decade.
“It ensures Tshipi remains on a stable logistics platform while creating value for employees, shareholders and host communities,” Lotlhare said.
Transnet Group Chief Executive Michelle Phillips said the deal shows the value of aligning mining and logistics.
“This long-term agreement will strengthen confidence in South Africa’s ability to deliver to global markets,” she said.
Manganese, vital for steel production, also has growing uses in batteries, glassmaking and ceramics.
Broader rail agreements reshape sector
The manganese deal comes as Transnet signs multiple partnerships to stabilise its operations. Last week, it entered into a coal rail agreement with Exxaro to support its Mpumalanga mines.
Exxaro is also moving into manganese through a pending R11.67 billion acquisition that will give it a controlling stake in Tshipi Borwa and other assets. The deal is expected to be completed in early 2026.
Meanwhile, Transport Minister Barbara Creecy is negotiating with 11 private train operators to expand access to the state-owned rail network. Analysts say these moves could reshape the sector and provide greater certainty for exporters.
