Kalangula warns of cross-border trade disruptions

Allexer Namundjembo

Member of Parliament Nelson Kalangula has warned that escalating disruptions affecting Namibian cross-border truck drivers operating in South Africa could have far-reaching economic consequences for Namibia, particularly due to the country’s heavy dependence on South African supply routes and imports.

Kalangula said the logistics and transport sector remains central to Namibia’s economy, as it facilitates the movement of essential goods and maintains the country’s trade linkages with its largest trading partner.

“The logistics and transport sector forms the backbone of Namibia’s economy and trade corridors,” Kalangula said on Wednesday in a statement to the Windhoek Observer.

He said the situation, which has reportedly led some transport operators to withdraw trucks from South African routes due to safety concerns, reflects a growing economic risk that could disrupt supply chains and increase pressure on domestic markets.

“Commercial entities are currently being forced to prematurely withdraw drivers from South African routes, a clear indicator that the status quo is unlivable and economically devastating,” he said.