• Market Watch

Fueling Namibia's Trade: Transworld Cargo’s Impact on the Industry

• 2 Days Ago

Transworld Cargo operates globally through its offices in Namibia, collaborating with a vast network of international agents and logistics providers. Their services are defined by excellence, with a strong focus on cost efficiency, operational effectiveness, and reliability. With more than ten years of experience at Transworld Cargo, Transport Manager Marius van Taak has witnessed the company’s evolution from outsourcing trucking services to owning a fleet of vehicles that serve multiple countries in the region. “When I joined Transworld Cargo, we didn’t have many trucks. We relied on external providers,” Van Taak shared. “Over the years, we have built our fleet, and today, we operate in several southern African countries.” The company’s operations span across Angola, Zambia, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Zimbabwe, Malawi, and South Africa. A key part of their transport business involves moving copper from Zambia to Walvis Bay for export, as well as handling chemicals and empty bottles for Namibia Breweries.



Day-to-Day Operations

Van Taak’s daily responsibilities involve monitoring the movement of trucks and ensuring that logistical plans are executed efficiently. “Each morning, I check where all the trucks are, their destinations, and plan their next loads,” he said. “Our priority is keeping them on the road and minimising downtime.” While Namibia’s road infrastructure has significantly improved, challenges remain. “Border crossings can sometimes cause delays, especially when dealing with high truck volumes at key entry points like Zambia and Angola,” he explained.



Expanding Horizons

The company has expanded its fleet. “We had six more trucks and new trailers which arrived, growth is constant, and we are adapting to the increasing demand,” Van Taak said.

One of Transworld Cargo’s latest initiatives includes a documentary highlighting the life of truck drivers. “We filmed their journey to Rwanda, capturing everything from border delays to meal stops and sleeping arrangements,” he noted. “I even joined them for the first trip, driving to Rwanda and back.”



Local Operations in Namibia

Transport and Logistics Manager Mercia Howaes, who has been with Transworld Cargo for more than five years, oversees local transport operations, including equipment like side loaders and cranes.

“I handle all transport within Namibia, moving cargo from Walvis Bay to Windhoek,” she said. The workload is intense, with an average of 60 containers moved weekly. “It can be challenging to manage between 10 to 15 trucks daily.”



Challenges in the Industry

Howaes highlighted key logistical issues, including truck shortages and managing workload distribution. “Sometimes we have too many trucks, other times not enough,” she said. “Dealing with difficult drivers and language barriers can also be challenging.” She emphasised that strategic planning is crucial. “The key is to organise everything in advance. When things get busy, you don’t want to be scrambling at the last minute.”



A Growing Enterprise

Despite challenges, Howaes is optimistic about the future. “Transworld Cargo is growing. We have added eight new fleets in the past two years, and our client base continues to expand.”

She praised the company’s supportive work environment. “They invest in employees, allowing us to learn and grow. I started here straight out of high school, and they taught me everything I know.”

With a strong logistical framework, expanding operations, and a commitment to employee development, Transworld Cargo continues to play a crucial role in Namibia’s transport industry.