Rock sample analysis creates lucrative niche for transporters

Preclearance cuts transit times for imports
KEVIN MAYHEW
IF THE Americans were so obsessed with rock that they went to the moon to get a piece then DHL Global Freight cannot be faulted for making great business out of moving crushed rock out of Zambia. Commercial manager Zambia, Jabu Rakatsinzwa, says the level of prospecting that is presently under way to find new or expand existing mines has created a major demand for rock sample analysis – and that means sending the samples away, mainly to South Africa but also to Perth, Australia. There is also a great demand for spares and high tech equipment, he says. “Some machinery has to be sent to South Africa or other countries for repairs and DHL offers a 'Repair and Return' service.” The company has a strong direct presence in the major towns and cities of Zambia and has, since the merger with Danzas, also strengthened its footprint to include border posts. DHL moves anything from a document to a full container load. “There is a lot of work for the mines and we are also servicing the expanding banking sector and NGOs. The use of our own aircraft in and across the region has given us the edge against competition or rather those complementing us in the market. Our sophisticated gateways at both Lusaka and Ndola airports and the relationship we have with the Zambia Revenue Authorities enables us to streamline importing and pre-clear, thus reducing transit times,” he said. He believes the ease of entry into the economy for new business has been very healthy for the economy with many young businesses beginning to emerge.