More and more containers are being purchased in South Africa to use as storage in areas such as Angola where projects are on the increase. According to Craig Lentz, freight manager at Chavda Freight, the lack of storage space at current projects is resulting in containers from South Africa going north to Angola. “There has been a steep increase in project cargo in countries such as Angola due to the expansion of their economy,” said Lentz. “The mining industry is the main contributor to the higher cargo levels while there’s also an increase in the export of tools and raw steel from South Africa.” According to Lentz, there has also been a notable increase in the export of perishable goods to support the higher number of people being employed to work on the projects. While volumes have been consistently increasing, he said, estimates are that in October and November this year the highest volume to date will be seen moving into Angola, with a minimum of 20- 30 trucks entering the region. But, he said, the inadequate road infrastructure was a huge challenge. “There have been major road works in Lobito, making it difficult to get cargo to the designated project. The main area of concern is in the north and the east of Angola.” Lentz said that despite the challenges there were still many opportunities in road freight in the project cargo arena. “Also, in terms of airfreight, there are opportunities to get cargo to areas that are not accessible any other way,” he said. CAPTION Craig Lentz … ‘highest volume expected in October and November.’
