Jakes Ambaram . . . ‘We transport all types of cargo.’ AFRICA SPECIALIST Discount Freight has big expansion plans despite the negative impact of the stronger rand on South African exporters. Managing director Jakes Ambaram recently attended the International Aid and Trade Africa exhibition in Nairobi to expand his network and business opportunities. The company specialises in road transport exports to neighbouring African countries. Started as a one-man show by Ambaram and his wife, it has expanded to a staff of 20. Its main areas of focus are Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique and Tanzania, using permanent subcontractors, mainly owner-drivers, on the routes. “We transport all kinds of cargo,” says Ambaram. For sensitive cargo, an armed escort is provided to Beit Bridge. Its range of services includes warehousing, customs clearing, loading and the dispatch of cargo for export destinations.