Mozambique has an important role to play in the African context offering not only an alternative port, but also many projects and developments, according to Charl Desmore, operation and technical director of Destrans. Established in 2004 following a request to transport a large consignment of timber sawlogs from Mpumalanga to the Maputo port for export to Vietnam, Destrans has become a specialist in Mozambique operations. “There are still several challenges facing Mozambique such as the border clearance delays,” says Desmore. “We have seen an improvement but there are still delays, specially on the Mozambican side. Also the issue around corruption remains, but it is being addressed.The challenges, however, are not unlike those in many of the other neighbouring countries.” Desmore says while the entire African market is seeing much growth, Mozambique in particular has a number of projects and developments on the go – evident from every new visit to the country. “In Maputo especially there is always a hotel or a new building going up, while several resorts are opening along the coastline.” In the context of the African market, Mozambique is very important, says Desmore. “Many local hauliers have ventured overborder as the imports via South African ports outweigh the exports and you constantly have an imbalance of cargo. Unfortunately some operators come into the new markets without doing their homework, cut rates and upset the market only to pull out of that market after the damage has been done. We are fortunate to have a loyal customer base that knows we offer a constant, reliable service.” With the citrus season now over, Maputo port is coming into its own, says Desmore, with volumes having definitely increased. “We are also expecting substantial volumes of construction equipment to move to the northern provinces of Mozambique where a number of projects are under way. “The volumes through Maputo this year have more than doubled – a very positive sign,” he says.
