Zambian specialist brings Customs know-how

Experience can never be underestimated
when working in
Africa, says Perry Siatulye,
managing director of Halifax Freight
Services in Ndola, Zambia.
“It is experience that makes the
difference in this market, but at
the same time education is just as
important to ensure one stays up to
date with trends in the industry.”
Siatulye, who founded Halifax
Freight Services after years of
working as a Zambian customs
official, says it is this experience
that has given his company the
cutting edge. “Obviously having
worked for Zambian Customs I
bring experience to the table which
is very valuable. Being familiar
with business operations in Africa
is extremely important to successful
business dealings on the continent.”
Following the 2009 global
economic recession which saw the
Copperbelt come to a near halt,
Halifax Freight Services has put its
experience and training to use in
2010 growing its service offering by
becoming one of the first clearing
houses in Zambia to also handle
procurement.
Siatulye says as the copper
mines start operating again, so do
opportunities for companies like
Halifax.
“Success is, however, not just
dependent on getting a contract. You
must be familiar with the Zambia
way and requirements to ensure a
smooth process for clients. This
is where experience plays a major
role.”