The Walvis Bay Corridor is witnessing a surge in cargo volumes as mineral production in Zambia’s Copperbelt expands, bolstered by investments in new mining ventures.
According to Mbahupu Hippy Tjivikua, CEO of the Walvis Bay Corridor Group (WBCG), this growth reinforces the port’s strategic importance as a gateway to global markets.
“We have observed that the volumes moving in and out of the Copperbelt are increasing, driven by the expansion in mineral production by existing mines and investments in new mining ventures, such as KoBold Metals in Chingola and Kalengwa in Mufumbwe,” Tjivikua said.
“With this upward trajectory in volumes, leveraging the Port of Walvis Bay as a strategic gateway provides a seamless and efficient connection to international markets.”
Elisha Matambo, Zambian Copperbelt minister, echoed these sentiments at a recent Copperbelt information-sharing session in Kitwe, Zambia. He emphasised the importance of Walvis Bay in supporting the region’s mining sector, in light of the need for efficient, cost-effective logistics solutions to enhance the region’s competitiveness.
“To that end, we have placed the Zambian dry port under Zamcargo to increase Zambia’s presence in Namibia, and consequently we anticipate quick growth of Zambia’s logistical footprint in the country.”
Tjivikua said the benefits of using Walvis Bay to move Copperbelt minerals are clear.
“We offer shorter transit times, competitive logistics solutions and efficient connections to global markets.”
He said one important development was that of the new strategic corridor, Kolwezi-Kambimba-Lumwana-Mangu-Katima Mulilo-Walvis Bay, which was being championed by Sandstone Consortium.
“This new corridor will be 235km shorter than the Walvis Bay-Ndola-Lubumbashi Development Corridor (WBNLDC), and up to seven days faster.
"Furthermore, a new border post will be constructed between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Zambia for this corridor, along with the development of a new road featuring toll facilities. Once completed, this route is set to provide a faster and more efficient alternative for exports and imports to and from the Port of Walvis Bay, enhancing regional connectivity.”
- Read the full article in our Freight Features edition on "The Copperbelt."
