Thesis (MBA)--Stellenbosch University, 2014. / Namibian ports are state-owned and have fallen behind in terms of port reform The ports are increasingly pressurised by port users and even more so by shipping lines for infrastructure investment and technological advancement without any guarantee of return on investments. Increased competition amongst ports as well as a shift in the balance of power to port users, demands of Namibia to review its port governance and ownership structure to ensure that the country remains responsive to the changing global marketplace contribute to these pressures. This study deals with the complexities associated with port reform and port competition. The paper presents a synthesis of literature on port governance models and port reform. In addition, this paper also presents an analysis of the port choice decisions made by port users and reviewed port reform case studies of two African ports. Drawing from the lessons in case studies, it is clear that various options of port reform have emerged over the years, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The study further shows similarities in the objectives of port users when choosing a port but applying different strategies to achieve their objectives.