Strong agent network key to logistics success

The opportunities in Africa are “endless” – particularly for project cargo and exports – which is why Sanguine Logistics International has teamed up with a strong freight agency network throughout Africa. “This ensures that our business dealings are conducted with due respect for each country’s legislation, environment, culture and people,” said managing director Lesley Haw. She says one of the biggest lessons Sanguine learnt early on is that it is really important to have the right agents on the ground and at the borders, particularly for the Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries. Challenges vary from country to country says Haw, with Angola and Mozambique providing several infrastructure challenges. And while some countries, such as Zambia, “go out of their way” to facilitate intra-regional trade, there are others that make it “nearly impossible”. “Supplier collaboration is an incredibly important part of joint business success,” said Haw, adding that Sanguine’s business approach was simple. “We stick to what we’re good at and partner with those who are good at what they do.” Sanguine’s strategic partnerships in Africa bring buying power benefits which it passes on to its customers directly in the form of a “highly competitive pricing structure”, said Haw. The company’s project cargo into Africa is mainly mining equipment, telecommunications and agricultural equipment. “However, we have other longterm contracts in place which include the distribution of liquor products, refrigerated products and more,” Haw said. INSERT We stick to what we’re good at and partner with those who are good at what they do. CAPTION Increased mining operations have created project cargo growth opportunities.