DRC logistics specialist woos SA market

DRC-based Nik International and Logistics has launched a concerted campaign to grow its South African client base, specialising not only in the movement of goods between SA and the DRC but also between SA and Zimbabwe and Zambia. Established in 2004, the family-run business has already delivered on its mandate of expanding its business in southern and central Africa, according to SA-based managing director Patty Kashale. The local office was opened two years ago and business is showing promising growth, Kashale told FTW. The company also has own offices at key border posts in the region – Musina, Beitbridge, Chirundu, Kasumbalesa and Katanga/Lubumbashi. Born and bred in the DRC, Kashale believes this offers significant benefits. “We know the DRC environment, we know the rules and regulations and can therefore offer a consultancy service which often helps to save money for the client.” One of the problems that shippers face is all the taxes and bribes that need to be paid once the truck reaches the DRC, says managing director of the Harare office, Christian Tshiabuta. “For our customers, once the truck reaches the Congo, we take responsibility.” Charges for SA-registered trucks entering the DRC are very high, says Kashale. “But we have signed an agreement with the government that allows trucks contracted by us to be charged as Congolese trucks. “Speedy transit is another advantage we offer”, says Kashale. “We guarantee a maximum of one week transit time from SA to the DRC with an additional two days for delivery within the DRC. This is very competitive compared to other services on the route which sometimes take 3-4 weeks.” The streamlined operation is facilitated not only by the company’s border staff but by its warehouse at the border which is secured by armed guards and CCTV. “Goods are moved directly into the warehouse after clearance and dispatched to the final destination from there.” The company was launched nine years ago by CEO Victor Tshiabuta who had spent 10 years working as a clearing agent at the border. Driven by customer demand it has since expanded its product offering to provide a door-to-door logistics service. While it has a small f leet of its own trucks it also outsources the transport leg. Kashale believes that the DRC is a country with huge growth potential which is likely to attract major investment going forward. “We can offer advice to investors on clearing, business strategies and any information in the logistics arena.” INSERT & CAPTION For our customers, once the truck reaches the Congo, we take responsibility. – Christian Tshiabutu & Patty Kashale