Lawful operators benefit as illegals are apprehended

THE REWARDS are high at present for
competent truckers who handle consignments to sub-equatorial Africa, with vast
volumes ready to be moved by road. But vehicle owners must guard against corrupt drivers and officials who are causing havoc in some sectors, says overborder specialist Kingfisher Freight's Alwyn Nel.
"This is becoming a big problem along various routes with smuggling an increasingly
worrying issue. In one recent major bust in Zambia, 31 vehicles were impounded, all involved in carrying illegal loads.
"Transport operators have to be on their toes, because those who are in strict control of their operations are the ones who are benefiting. The law is gaining the upper hand everywhere against the wrongdoers."
Another problem facing the industry, he says, is the lengthy wait for the release of entries at Germiston customs, brought about by the implementation of new computerised systems which are experiencing teething difficulties.
"This is causing delays, sometimes up to three days, and we are hoping it gets sorted out soon," says Nel. "We need it because there's a heavy demand for just-in-time deliveries to other countries.
"Take Mozambique as an example. That country's development is going like a rocket. It's one of the more stable nations in Africa, investment is pouring in, and the roads leading to and from it are packed with transport vehicles.
"Lesotho and Swaziland are also developing rapidly, and there is improvement in services in Malawi."