West African logistics challenges start with congested ports, which means that forwarders and carriers need to be innovative and f lexible to keep goods imports and exports moving, according to Carey Kennard, CFR Durban ocean freight exports manager.CFR offers fortnightly direct NVOCC services into Nigeria and Ghana, with a monthly service into Angola. All carriers are faced with continuous port congestion challenges in the region, which means that having a local presence and proximity to the port are important, she says.“Our partners in Ghana are well positioned and equipped to handle all types of cargo.
“They are situated just one hour from the port and are able to uplift and destuff containers quickly.”Further south, carriers are experiencing 40 to 60-day berthing delays at Apapa, Nigeria.“New cranes have been installed at APM Terminals to try and ease the congestion, but carriers are still using alternative terminals like Tin Can Island to avoid the waiting period.” she says.
Operations have also been affected by restrictions to limit the spread of Covid-19.“Our partners in Apapa are working around the clock to have containers moved and de-stuffed with urgency.”Despite the challenges, Kennard is upbeat about the prospects for West Africa.
“With the region having been in a three-month lockdown there have been additional challenges, but we at CFR are positive the West Africa economy will pick itself up and exports into Africa will grow.
“There is a great need for refrigerated space to accommodate agricultural and perishable products. Creating these facilities will open up new markets for exports into West Africa.”
