Logistics Support Services (LSS) initiated the rollout of an Operations Management System in May this year to improve efficiency and increase visibility.According to Carla Venter, an executive for customer integration and support, the system will also improve overall resource allocation. "It has introduced a scalability framework into our operations that will allow for expansion and growth while also giving us the ability to maintain and improve compliance with regulations, standards, and quality control requirements."Venter told Freight News this was important considering the significant opportunities in Namibia, where volumes in the oil and gas, mining and renewable sectors, in particular, were increasing. "This is in light of the increased exploration activities and ongoing developments in these sectors. We have, however, noted a decrease in exports for the fishing sector due to the strict regulation, control, and quotas that have been implemented."According to Venter, Namibia's outlook is extremely bright, considering the growing interest in oil and gas, mining and renewables. " We ex pec t to see Namibia's GDP grow, and also expect a reduction in the unemployment rate, improvements in infrastructure and an increase in exports. The growth in one sector often has a multiplier effect and will cause other sectors to f lourish," she said. "The growing industries will also increase government revenue through payments of income taxes and other forms of revenue generation."Venter said the ongoing investment in the country boded well for logistics service suppliers with a strong footprint."There are still challenges, such as infrastructure constraints, skills shortages and regulatory issues. Addressing these challenges will require a combination of investments and developments, as well as some regulatory reforms and more coordination among stakeholders in the logistics sector. The government, industry players, and other relevant parties need to work together to overcome obstacles and enhance the efficiency and competitiveness of Namibia's logistics sector."According to Venter, the positives, however, far outweigh the negatives when it comes to Namibia. “We are very excited about the port expansion plans for the south of Namibia, and at the same time, the construction of the North Port in Walvis Bay as continual improvements are required to service a growing economy.”She said recently LSS had attended the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Port of Belgium (Antwerp-Bruges) and the Port of Namibia (Namport). The two ports also signed an MoU with Belgium-based CMB Tech, a hydrogen solutions company, for the development and deployment of the first-ever green-powered ship in Africa. “As a leading logistics company, LSS fully supports the drive towards greener energy in Africa and we salute Namibia for being a pioneer for the rest of Africa in this important endeavour.”
