El Shadai Logistics, a Mozambican logistics company with a robust presence in the oil, gas and minerals sectors, is on the brink of expansion as new projects commence in the region. Headquartered in Pemba and supported by offices in Maputo, Beira, and Nacala, the company is enthusiastic about the evolving energy landscape and the opportunities it presents.Managing director Domingos Laice expressed optimism about the future of the company and the country, particularly with the recent commencement of long-awaited projects in the oil and gas sectors. "We've been waiting for these projects to start, and we are slowly but surely seeing them come online. This bodes well not only for the logistics sector at large but also for the nation as a whole.”However, Laice highlighted the challenges local companies faced in competing with well-funded foreign entities. "Foreign companies have substantial budgets. It can be tough for smaller, local companies to compete for the work, while it is also difficult at times to secure the necessary investment to prove our c apabi lit ie s," he said. This is particularly evident in the oil and gas sector, where many companies bring their own logistics providers, making it difficult for local firms to showcase their expertise.El Shadai Logistics has managed to carve out a niche by specialising in a range of commodities, from general cargo to minerals, oil and gas. With a f leet of 15 trucks and the necessary licences to operate in this highly regulated industry, the company has gone from strength to strength thanks to its strong local ex per t i se. “ We are very adept at handling customs procedures, a crucial aspect of logistics in Mozambique's burgeoning energy sector,” said Laice.He also pointed out the broader challenges of operating in the African logistics sector, which differs significantly from the more developed markets in Europe and America. "Infrastructure challenges, bureaucracy, and slower processes are all part of the daily hurdles we face. But we are making inroads and proving ourselves every day," he added.With increasing investment in Mozambique, the company is determined to seize these opportunities. "We must make use of these projects and continue to prove ourselves," Laice emphasised, underlining the company's commitment to growing alongside Mozambique's evolving energy landscape. "We have the expertise, we know the local terrain, and we're ready to mobilise our people to ensure these projects succeed," he said. LV
