The Walvis Bay Corridor is experiencing a surge in cargo volumes as mineral production in Zambia’s Copperbelt expands, driven by investments in new mining ventures.
According to Mbahupu Hippy Tjivikua, CEO of the Walvis Bay Corridor Group (WBCG), this growth underscores the port’s strategic importance as a gateway to global markets.
“We have observed that volumes moving in and out of the Copperbelt are increasing, fueled by the expansion of existing mines and new investments, such as KoBold Metals in Chingola and Kalengwa in Mufumbwe,” Tjivikua said.
“With this upward trajectory, leveraging the Port of Walvis Bay provides a seamless and efficient connection to international markets.”
Elisha Matambo, Zambia’s Copperbelt Minister, echoed these sentiments during a recent information-sharing session in Kitwe.
He stressed the critical role of Walvis Bay in supporting the region’s mining sector, highlighting the need for efficient, cost-effective logistics solutions to enhance regional competitiveness.
“To that end, we have placed the Zambian dry port under Zamcargo to strengthen Zambia’s presence in Namibia.
Consequently, we anticipate rapid growth in Zambia’s logistical footprint within the country,” Matambo said.
Tjivikua emphasized the clear benefits of using Walvis Bay to transport Copperbelt minerals.
“We offer shorter transit times, competitive logistics solutions, and efficient access to global markets.”
He also highlighted a major development: the new strategic corridor—Kolwezi-Kambimba-Lumwana-Mangu-Katima Mulilo-Walvis Bay—being spearheaded by Sandstone Consortium.
“This new corridor will be 235 kilometers shorter than the existing Walvis Bay-Ndola-Lubumbashi Development Corridor (WBNLDC) and up to seven days faster,” Tjivikua noted.
