OCL, a Mozambican-owned logistics firm based in Maputo, is making strides in the industry, demonstrating the clear advantages of a customer-oriented approach as it continues to grow. Founded in 2012 by Jorge Ferraz and joined by general manager Irina Luis Rodrigues in 2013, OCL set out to address a critical gap in the logistics industry, shifting the mindset many have had of Mozambican agents by establishing itself as a client-focused, integrated logistics provider."We built OCL Ida to be client-oriented, offering a full range of services beyond clearance. Our goal is to make logistics smooth, efficient and cost-effective," said Rodrigues.Since its inception, the company has expanded into four core business segments: a cargo agency, road and rail transport, warehousing, and freight desk operations. The company manages significant cargo volumes, handling around two million tons of chrome ore annually – representing approximately 15% of the Port of Maputo's total chrome volume. In addition to minerals, OCL is venturing further into agricultural commodities, with citrus and sugar among the goods they handle. In 2022, the company handled over 1 000 containers of citrus through Maputo, positioning the port as a potential citrus export hub. "We worked hard to prove that Maputo can function as a citrus corridor, and we are investing in agri-operations to handle the expected growth in volumes," said Rodrigues.Despite a slower-than-anticipated citrus season in 2024, the company remains optimistic. "We haven’t yet reached last year's volumes, but the development of the corridor is progressing. New cold storage facilities and investments in the port infrastructure are setting the stage for future growth," she told Freight News.While the agricultural sector continues to develop, O C L’s m i n e r a l sector operations remain strong. The company offers integrated solutions to its clients, covering warehousing, transport and scheduling, allowing customers to focus on their core business of trading. OCL provides clients with up to 60 days of storage at their facility in Steelport, ensuring f lexibility in the face of supply chain challenges."Our approach allows clients to leave the logistics to us while they focus on trading," Rodrigues explained. "We optimise capacity, streamline transport, and ensure efficient, cost-effective solutions."While optimistic about the outlook for the Maputo corridor, Rodrigues said ongoing challenges were being experienced with return loads. "During peak season, Maputo is competitive for road freight, but for most of the year it's not viable. We need more collaboration between stakeholders to make the corridor more efficient year round.”She said the future remained bright considering the ongoing investment at the Port of Maputo and on the corridor. “Stakeholders are working together. There is a new vision for both the port and the corridor, and we believe the opportunities are immense." LV
