New leadership … new opportunities

Mitchell Cotts Zambia is reinventing itself under the leadership of Tony Kangote, who is now “flying solo” as general manager after the retirement of Alex Mashano. The company has a strong brand, which combined with fresh energy to tackle new challenges and help clients exploit fresh opportunities, positions it strongly for growth, he says. Areas of opportunity include the opening up of the historic East African trade corridor through to Zimbabwe, Kenya and Malawi, the export of agricultural products and cement from Zambia, and the importation of equipment, vehicles, consumer goods and electronic equipment to feed the growing Zambian economy, he says. With the potential of cement exports into the Great Lakes, Kenya and other neighbouring countries, there is an opportunity for exporters to sell into Zambia or route their cargo through the country. “We are looking for back loads,” he says. The company has its own storage yard with a rail siding in Ndola, so cargo could be transhipped onto rail from there. One of the indicators of growth is the opening of banking branches at a number of Zambian border posts. “The banking systems are coming back, and we see a lot of activity in the market,” says Kangote. For clearing agents like Mitchell Cotts and its clients, the presence of the banks at the borders helps speed up crossing time. It also reduces the risks to drivers, who do not have to travel with large amounts of cash. Mitchell Cotts has a presence at all the major Zambian border posts. All the offices are run by people who have at least 10 years’ experience working for Zambian customs. “They understand the regulations and procedures, and know who to contact if there is a problem or query,” he says.