MSC partnership expected to boost TransNamib container volumes
TransNamib expects its strategic partnership with global shipping line MSC to significantly increase containerised cargo transported by rail between the Port of Walvis Bay and Windhoek, with volumes initially estimated at about 10 000 tonnes a month.
TransNamib expects its strategic partnership with global shipping line MSC to significantly increase containerised cargo transported by rail between the Port of Walvis Bay and Windhoek, with volumes initially estimated at about 10 000 tonnes a month.
The national railway operator said the volumes could rise to around 30 000 tonnes a month by 2028 as the relationship develops.
MSC has signed up as a strategic client of TransNamib, creating an opportunity for both companies to expand the movement of container cargo by rail.
TransNamib said the partnership is expected to support greater rail volumes and improve the movement of goods between the Port of Walvis Bay and inland markets.
A key component of this logistics network is the Windhoek Container Terminal (WINCON), which facilitates the handling and transfer of containerised cargo between rail and road.
The containers transported along the Walvis Bay-Windhoek corridor carry a wide range of general and commercial cargo, including imported and exported goods, consumer products, industrial goods, mining machinery and other commodities.
The specific products transported depend on customer requirements and market demand.
The company said it continues to work with container customers and logistics partners to increase rail volumes and provide an alternative to road transportation.
TransNamib attributed the year-to-date decline partly to higher fuel prices, which affected demand for fuel, as well as disruptions to its operations.
Despite the decline, the company said it remained confident of recovering the lost volumes during the remainder of the financial year.
The target is being supported by efforts to improve locomotive availability, increase operational efficiency and develop new business opportunities aimed at encouraging the shift of cargo from road to rail.
The company said its relationship with MSC could create further opportunities to strengthen rail-based logistics and increase containerised cargo volumes.
Further discussions between the two companies are expected to focus on expanding volumes, improving connectivity and increasing the efficiency of cargo movement between Walvis Bay and inland destinations.
