Namibia invests US$126.5M in Walvis Bay, adds six RTG cranes
In parallel, Windhoek is increasing investment in overland transport infrastructure.
NAMIBIA – Namibia has invested US$126.5 million in Walvis Bay port, adding six RTG cranes to boost regional trade for landlocked neighbours.
For fresh produce exporters and food logistics investors, this expansion offers a reliable alternative to South African ports for transporting perishable goods to and from landlocked Southern African markets.
Strategic Investment After 25-Year Concession
The acquisition forms part of an investment programme launched by TIN after securing a 25-year concession to operate the port facility in 2024.
In late 2024, the company signed financing agreements with Standard Bank Namibia and RMB Namibia to raise 2.1 billion Namibian dollars (US$126.5 million) to modernize the container terminal and improve operational efficiency.
For Namport, the country’s port authority, the expansion is part of a national strategy to consolidate the logistics network and position Namibia as a credible regional alternative to South African ports, despite persistent operational constraints.
Why Walvis Bay Matters for Landlocked Countries
A significant share of the foreign trade of landlocked Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries, including Zambia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe, is currently routed through South African ports, particularly Durban.
Recurrent delays and operational difficulties at these facilities are increasingly prompting those countries to diversify their logistics corridors, turning to alternatives such as Nacala and Maputo in Mozambique.
For food supply chains, Walvis Bay offers shorter transit times to landlocked markets. Fresh produce from Zambia or Botswana to European buyers can avoid Durban’s congestion, reduce spoilage risk and improve shelf life on arrival.
Cross-Border Rail Connectivity
In parallel, Windhoek is increasing investment in overland transport infrastructure. The Trans-Kalahari railway project, which aims to link Namibia with Botswana, is part of this effort. Similar initiatives with Zambia are also being considered to deepen regional logistics integration.
Fresh Produce Trade Benefits
Namibia’s evolving infrastructure creates new corridors for perishable exports. Modernized port handling, together with developing rail links to Botswana and Zambia, enables faster, more predictable movement of agricultural goods.
As landlocked SADC countries seek to diversify away from congested South African ports, Walvis Bay’s expanded capacity and improved overland connections position Namibia as a vital gateway for regional food trade and investment.
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