Border delays continue to stymie smooth logistics operations

A unified solution at border posts in southern Africa will make all the difference in ensuring the smooth movement of cargo across the region, says Chris Chiinda, director of Cee Cee Freight & Suppliers. “Borders remain a major headache,” says Chiinda. “We face various challenges in the freight forwarding industry but delays at border posts is probably still the biggest of all. Add to that the challenge of capturing data for two different countries and it just takes even longer.” Based in Lusaka in Zambia, the company’s main line of business is transport logistics, clearing and forwarding of shipments working across southern African countries. “The reality around the movement of goods is that a truck will cross to Zimbabwe or Zambia, and in both countries paperwork will have to be captured and redone due to the lack of a uniform system. We believe that once a solution is found to this problem, the days of delays will be over. It is critical that we adopt a common entry procedure for southern Africa.” But, despite this continued challenge, the road freight industry continues to grow from strength to strength, says Chiinda. “Rates have become more favourable, and with more entrants to the market competition has increased, which is a good sign.” But with more trucks on the road, it is more important than ever before to upgrade and maintain infrastructure at all times. “Good roads with reasonable toll fees and fair road blocks to safeguard the goods and the services being offered in southern African countries is imperative to our industry,” says Chiinda. “Without a doubt we must also improve our railway systems as we need both modes of transport.”