The completion of the road between Lusaka and the Copperbelt is set to be a game changer in Zambia. According to Paul Cunliffe, managing director of 4PL Africa, this major improvement in road infrastructure will significantly enhance transit times, reduce maintenance costs and boost overall road safety.“Road infrastructure remains a huge problem in the country,” Cunliffe told Freight News. “The effects on asset maintenance costs are significant, which forces up rates. Fuel theft along most routes is another problem, often occurring with impunity from authorities, even in full view of passing traffic. The devaluation of the local currency also makes overall funding dif f icult.”Cunliffe highlighted the demand for business-class service provision and equipment. “Premium brands require their products to be delivered with equipment that ref lects their quality. With this in mind, 4PL Africa has acquired a premium A-grade warehouse facility in Lusaka to house and distribute products. The facility features 24-hour security access control, camera systems and uninterrupted power supply.”This is critical considering the country’s ongoing struggle with insufficient electricity supply. “Zambia is also grappling with a severe drought. While the market is subdued, there are opportunities in mining and the importation of food products,” he said.Cunliffe also pointed out that transport capacity for in-country deliveries was becoming obsolete due to an ageing f leet without adequate replacement provisions. “New assets are being deployed in the mining sector and on export volumes. As a result, companies that have relied on cheaper transport services will be forced to start paying higher rates, which will undoubtedly drive up the cost of living.”
