True to its mandate of marketing the corridors, business development and trade facilitation, the Walvis Bay Corridor Group and the Namibian Ports Authority, in collaboration with BAK Logistics of Zimbabwe, conducted a series of business-to-business meetings recently.
The delegation, which was welcomed by the Namibian ambassador to Zimbabwe, Nicklaas Kandjii, engaged with existing and potential clients, including off-takers for metals and minerals, mining houses, fertiliser companies, food and beverage manufacturers, and agro-packaging solutions' companies from 22 to 26 April 2024.
The meetings were conducted in Harare as well as a scoping mission to Gweru, Zvishavane and Sandawana Mine (in the Mberengwa District) that is endowed with large lithium deposits.
The aim was to foster strategic partnerships, explore import/export opportunities and reaffirm our commitment to delivering comprehensive end-to-end supply chain solutions.
During the visit to the Sandawana Mine, the delegation had the opportunity to tour one of the largest lithium mines, where they were able to observe the lithium production process, and gain an appreciation for various lithium grades.
“This experience was crucial in comprehending the transport and logistics dynamics involved in linking these mines to the Port of Walvis Bay and our Corridors,” remarked Mbahupu Tjivikua, Walvis Bay Corridor Group’s CEO.
According to Tjivikua, the team was able to raise awareness for the corridors and the strategic importance of the Port of Walvis Bay. Discussions centred around enhancing trade facilitation services, and promoting the efficiency of utilising Namibia for lithium exports.
Kandjii underscored Namibia’s keen interest in fostering bilateral business exchanges and trade partnerships, particularly highlighting the mining sector as a promising avenue for collaboration.
He also affirmed his readiness to foster investor promotion between Namibia and Zimbabwe by way of concerted efforts that encourage the capitalisation of mutual economic opportunities, and the cultivation of a conducive environment for cross-border investment ventures.
Furthermore, the ambassador proposed the prospect of coordinating a subsequent joint trade mission between Namibia and Zimbabwe, akin to the successful initiative conducted in 2021.
“These meetings marked a pivotal moment in fostering collaboration and promoting economic growth in the region,” stated Kandjii.
The Zimbabwean ambassador to Namibia, Melody Chaurura, was instrumental in supporting the delegation prior to and during their visit.