Info missions punt benefits for Zambia, Angola and DRC

SOUTHERN AFRICAN exporters to the Americas and Europe could be reducing costs and time to market by taking advantage of the “empty leg” for most trucks returning to Walvis Bay from Zambia, Angola and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), says Manica general manager clearing and forwarding, Clive Smith. Manica has seen imports through the harbour growing strongly, as “the word has spread” about the upgrading of Walvis Bay and the cost-effective links it provides with neighbouring states along the different corridors, he says. Woker Freight Services – a division of Manica – has seen an increase in volumes handled for Zambia and the DRC, “and we are only one of the freight services operating out of Walvis Bay,” he says. Trucking, however, remains “the biggest headache” as exporters based in the DRC, Angola and Zambia are not taking as much advantage as they could of the opportunities created by the larger number of vessels calling on Walvis Bay and the road freight capacity into the harbour. This, despite the fact that “we have done various exercises which have proved that Walvis Bay offers lower overall logistics costs than the traditional routes,” he says. Manica is working closely with the Walvis Bay Corridor Group to change perceptions, and participates in regular marketing and informationsharing missions to neighbouring countries. “Namibia is perfectly positioned to service this area,” he says. Smith is confident that the marketing efforts will pay off, pointing out that it took two years before volumes really started picking up along the corridors. “I am confident the return cargo will come,” he says. The strategic position of Walvis Bay is being recognised outside of the continent, with European and United States based companies wanting to use the port as a hub to feed into southern Angola by both sea and road freight. Manica has positioned itself to offer the full range of services to these companies under the umbrella of its logistics division. “We have found that in most cases clients are looking for a full logistics package. " Closer to home, he says the rapid expansion of uranium mining operations is bringing business to both Walvis Bay and Lüderitz, where Manica has Lüderitz Bay Shipping and Forwarding, which offers a wide range of services – including the operation of a large hangar at Lüderitz airport.