‘People on the ground’ are key to overcoming challenges

New routes and hubs are on the cards for Africa as the world turns its eyes to the continent after two years of one of the worst economic downturns in 75 years, says Tony van Aswegen, managing director of Intraspreed. “Africa is growing. We are very confident for 2011 as volumes have already started to increase,” he said. “New routes and hubs are starting to develop for potential new business on the continent and we have therefore looked at re-developing our operations in several of our African offices to ensure we are ready and in a position to benefit from the interest in the continent.” Having re-developed its operations in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda, Intraspeed has also restructured its offices at Entebbe Airport, in the Kampala city centre and in Mombasa and Dar es Salaam. “We have also developed some new routes along with our partners. These include Entebbe in Uganda, Juba in Sudan and Kigali in Rwanda.” The rising demand for freight as a result of the huge investments in infrastructure in Africa has its rewards as well as its challenges, says Van Aswegen. “Things are never the same in Africa and this has taught us that it is extremely important to be proactive and know what customers are looking for at all times. The ultimate challenge and aim is to get the required goods to customers with as few delays as possible.” A challenge, most will agree, on a good day in Africa, with the lack of proper facilities and equipment – as well as corruption. Van Aswegen said the lack of education and strict guidelines also often caused hassles. “This has a direct effect on the entire supply chain which directly affects the end user and his products. Some of the challenges have, however, been overcome by developing extensive market knowledge and partnering with local agents who know and understand the intricacies of working in specific African countries.” Van Aswegen says for successful dealings it is therefore important to have people on the ground at each and every destination to check and re-check cargo and confirm all goods are received and in good order.