By Reginal Obaking
Namibia’s strategic location and world-class infrastructure provide it with a unique opportunity to become the leading logistics hub for the SADC region and beyond.
With well-developed corridors and state-of-the-art port facilities at Walvis Bay, the country is perfectly positioned to connect landlocked neighbours to global markets. However, logistics success is not just about location. It requires the right investments, policies, and partnerships.
Trends shaping the industry
Namibia’s logistics sector is being shaped by three key forces: the emerging oil and gas industry, the growing emphasis on sustainability, and stronger regional collaboration—each presents unique opportunities and challenges.
Recent oil and gas discoveries are a game-changer, driving Namibia toward becoming a significant energy exporter. As this sector expands, the logistics industry will support its growth. The demand for efficient and scalable logistics solutions will create new business and investment opportunities, from storage and transportation to distribution facilities and auxiliary services.
Sustainability is no longer optional in logistics. Businesses are under increasing pressure to reduce their carbon footprint, and Namibia is well-positioned to lead by leveraging its renewable energy resources to power greener supply chains. With the potential for abundant solar and wind energy, the country has a unique opportunity to develop sustainable logistics solutions that align with global environmental standards and market expectations.
This, coupled with stronger regional collaboration within the SADC region, is essential to unlock Namibia’s full logistics potential. Harmonised policies, improved border management, and deeper partnerships can streamline trade and solidify Namibia’s position as a key logistics hub.
A platform for engagement
Recognising the urgency of these shifts, RMB Namibia hosted the RMB Logistics Insights and Connect Breakfast in Walvis Bay on 20 November 2024. The event brought together key industry players and influential voices in the logistics sector to explore the trends shaping Namibia’s logistics future and its growing role within the SADC region and global market.
The conversations were insightful, urgent, and actionable, reinforcing the critical role logistics plays in Namibia’s economic growth and competitiveness. As Namibia positions itself as a regional trade and logistics hub, the focus must shift from potential to execution.
The RMB Logistics Insights and Connect Breakfast reinforced the critical role of collaboration in shaping Namibia’s logistics future. Discussions and questions following each presentation highlighted a shared vision among stakeholders—addressing challenges, unlocking opportunities, and driving sector-wide growth.
The consensus was clear: to remain at the forefront of the sector and fully capitalise on its logistics potential, Namibia must prioritise investment, innovation, and strategic partnerships.
Speakers included Ekkehard Friedrich from Shepherds Tree, Angelique Peake from RMB Namibia, Mervin Van Wyk from Namport, Dr Bianca Tjizumaue from Namdock, Gilbert Boois from Walvis Bay Corridor Group, and Precious Dube from RMB South Africa.
Their presentations sparked engaging discussions among delegates from multinational logistics companies and local businesses.
Looking ahead
Namibia’s logistics sector is on the brink of transformation. By leveraging global trends, regional partnerships, and local initiatives, we have the tools to redefine and solidify the country’s role in the worldwide supply chain. Unlocking this potential will require strategic investment, policy alignment, and a commitment to innovation.
The conversations at the RMB Logistics Insights and Connect Breakfast are already translating into tangible action. The Walvis Bay Port remains a key logistics hub, facilitating trade for neighbouring countries, including Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Angola, and South Africa.
With the recent expansion of its port, Walvis Bay is strengthening its position as the preferred trade hub in the SADC region, further cementing Namibia’s role as a regional leader in logistics and commerce.
RMB Namibia remains committed to working alongside our clients and partners to unlock opportunities in logistics and infrastructure. Together, we can ensure that Namibia keeps pace with the changing world and leads the way in shaping the future of logistics in Namibia.
The foundation has been laid, and the time to act is now. Working together can turn potential into progress and drive Namibia’s logistics sector toward long-term success.
*Reginal Obaking is Coverage Sector Head at RMB Namibia
