Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) has launched a new maritime link feeder linking Afungi to Nacala and Maputo. The service must facilitate the transport of equipment and goods necessary for the development of the liquefied natural gas (LNG) gas project in northern Mozambique, while improving its connection to the main international maritime routes.

The new link, called Afungi Shuttle, is based on two dedicated rotations: Nacala–Afungi–Nacala and Maputo–Afungi–Maputo according to MSC. It is intended, inter alia, for the transport of construction materials, machinery, industrial equipment, spare parts and other cargoes required for activities related to the Afungi LNG project.

The service comes as northern Mozambique recovers from economic activities associated with the development of its energy infrastructure.

The scheme allows MSC customers to connect their cargoes to Afungi from several major markets served by the company's maritime network, notably in Europe, the Mediterranean, America, Asia, the Middle East and Southern Africa.

The coastal feeder link is integrated into a single reservation with MSC, with only one commercial contact for the entire route. According to the company, this organization must simplify cargo planning and facilitate the coordination of shipments to Afungi.

With this new offer, Afungi benefits from a dedicated maritime connection from two of Mozambique's main port platforms. The service links in particular the Nacala area in the north of the country, and Maputo, in the south, to MSC's global maritime network.

For operators involved in the development of the gas project and associated industrial activities, this service is an additional solution to organise the delivery of equipment and supplies necessary for operations in northern Mozambique.