The Walvis Bay Corridor Group (WBCG), together with partners from the public and private sector, gathered for the 4th Namibia Logistics Hub Forum to look at how transport and logistics stakeholders can ‘accelerate growth through sustainable road development’.

The forum was held in Windhoek and attracted a wide range of stakeholders including the Road Fund Administration (RFA), the Ministries of Industrialisation Trade and SME Development (MITSD), Works and Transport, the Motor Vehicle Accident Fund (MVA), Roads Authority (RA) and the National Planning Commission.

Roads are a key element of the intermodal services offered by a Logistics Hub as it affects all aspects of development in southern Africa. Businesses depend on effective roads for transporting their goods, industry relies on roads for delivery of equipment and supplies, and the general public requires roads for work and leisurely travel.

Cedric Limbo from the Ministry of Works and Transport affirmed the importance of expanding and maintaining Namibia’s road network to attract trade. Acknowledging the importance of having the sector work together, Limbo stated: “The dream of achieving a Logistics Hub can only be realized if Namibia has an efficient and sustainable transport system. Namibia, like any other member state that harbours ambitions of becoming a logistics hub, is obliged to meet the standards and recommended practices. It is our duty and responsibility as a sector to work towards the goal of full compliance with these standards.”

Almost 95% of Namibian transport services are road based. Sophia Tekie, divisional manager for RMS, reiterated that a sustainable road network would benefit Namibia in many ways, the results of which will manifest in efficient transport systems, enhance community development and raise export production.

Funding, innovation, political support and stakeholder cooperation are needed to realize this vision. In addition, sustainable road networks, with road infrastructure and road user support systems that are ahead of Namibia’s growing demands are pivotal. “Roads create wealth and therefore, the maintenance of our roads is vital,” she said.

Ryno Badernhorst, business development manager for FP Du Toit Transport spoke to the forum from a transportation road user’s perspective and urged standardisation of procedures across the SADC region.

The purpose of the Logistics Hub Forum is for the industry to communicate with and support each other to ensure that Namibia develops into the envisioned Logistics Hub for the region.