From Africa to America: how an inclusive supply chain powered Namibia’s beef to the US

For the Walvis Bay Corridor Group (WBCG), the Logistics Hub project isn’t just a business concept —it is an existential force in the industry.

Evident by the recent beef consignment that left for the United States of America, logistics entails much more than the simple handling, transport and storage of a product.

Not only has Namibia’s logistics service providers developed smart solutions for the entire supply chain, these players have a high degree of competence that provides them with capacities to effectively organise production and value added services, distribute and finish the arrival of the product.

Several logistics entities came into play to ensure this consignment of boneless raw beef products reached its procurer in Philadelphia in perfect condition.

Woker Freight Services (WFS), a subsidiary of Manica Group Namibia, acted as the clearing export agent for the product owner, Meatco. According to WFS Manager Corridor/Domestic, Gloudie Olivier, the company provided complete clearing and forwarding logistics solutions as well as customs expertise and compliance management.

“We have international links with freight agencies to ensure cargo reaches its destination in time and at the lowest possible cost. As a reefer expert, we believe in taking the utmost care with perishable cargo such as frozen meat to ensure it reaches its final destination in top condition”, says Olivier.

In business since 1924, WFS offers key-account management services where clients deal only with one central agent to address all their needs, which includes access to a modern transport fleet and material handling equipment, as well as access to ample warehousing space.

Adding to the relevance of the Logistics Hub concept, Commercial Executive at the Namibian Port Authorities, Tino !Hanabeb reiterates the importance of Namibia having its own products to export. “Accessing a new market with Namibian product through our direct calls, using our logistics service providers, is a major milestone for the country. This further strengthens the port of Walvis Bay’s position as a leading port of choice in southern Africa”.

According to Meatco Corporate Communication Officer, Jethro Kwenani, Namibian beef is a world-class product, sought after from all corners of the globe. This high-quality beef has made Namibia the first country in Africa eligible to export beef to the United States.

“Namibia will benefit economically from tapping into the world’s largest consumer market with a purchasing power of $13 trillion U.S dollars, and U.S consumers will benefit from access to Namibia’s high quality, free range, grass fed and hormone, anti-biotic free beef”, says Kwenani.

The shipment of 25 tonnes of beef is the first of an expected 860 tonnes destined for the US in the first year. Meatco foresees that by the fifth year, Namibia will be able to send up to 5 700 tonnes of beef per year.

“As a company we are committed to contributing to the Namibian economy. With our manufacturing process, we start a supply chain that distributes a Namibian product globally. We are proud to have the opportunity to ship our product via the new expanded port in Walvis Bay, and are confident in the ability of all the service providers in this supply chain”, he says.

“Coupled with the ongoing infrastructure developments, which include road, rail and port upgrades, these economic activities further promote the country’s Logistics Hub aspirations”, says WBCG Project Manager, Gilbert Boois.