Shipping companies are opting to sail around the Cape of Good Hope to evade Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, resulting in longer routes and logistical challenges. The attacks, attributed to Iranian-backed militants, have disrupted global trade through the Suez Canal, prompting vessels to reroute. However, African ports, including major ones like Durban, Cape Town, and Ngqura, face issues such as red tape, congestion, and inadequate facilities. With limited choices for replenishment, shipping companies are navigating tough decisions, considering factors like rough weather, bureaucracy, and fueling options in ports like Walvis Bay (Namibia) or Port Louis (Mauritius). The situation underscores the broader impact of geopolitical conflicts on maritime trade routes.

SOURCE:GOOGLE