Africa-Press – Namibia. A groundbreaking initiative launched in Walvis Bay, promises to ease the growing congestion of trucks in the harbour town while creating a safer, more efficient, and dignified environment for long-haul drivers and logistics operators.
The Walvis Bay Truck Park and Staging Area introduces a modern ticketing and scheduling system that regulates truck access to the port and key logistics terminals. The facility will also offer secure parking, rest areas, and essential services for drivers, helping to restore order on public roads and reduce the strain on local infrastructure.
Currently, up to 600 trucks pass through Walvis Bay daily, a volume that has placed immense pressure on roads and created significant traffic and safety concerns. Trucks are often forced to park along residential streets while awaiting clearance to enter the port, creating what Mr. Cliff Shikwambi of NamPort described as an “eyesore” and a challenge to the town’s infrastructure management.
In his remarks at the launch, Mr. Dries Oberholzer, initiator of the Walvis Bay Truck Park and Staging Area, emphasised the importance of building a logistics ecosystem that balances economic growth with operational efficiency and driver welfare.
“A busy port is something to celebrate, but it must operate efficiently and sustainably,” he said. “This initiative turns a current challenge into an opportunity — to enhance turnaround times, improve safety, and create a structured logistics hub that benefits the entire region.”
He noted that the growth of trade corridors linked to Walvis Bay over the past five years has brought a surge in international freight movement, reinforcing the need for coordinated logistics planning and infrastructure development.
Recent congestion around the port and adjacent industrial zones has also raised safety concerns, particularly where unregulated truck parking obstructs emergency access. The new ticketing system will bring order by scheduling truck entry into the harbour and logistics terminals, improving flow and reducing waiting times.
The facility, located at Farm 38 next to the Dr. Hifikepunye Pohamba Freeway, is strategically positioned to serve as the first point of entry for heavy vehicles arriving at the port. It will accommodate over 150 trucks at a time, providing drivers with rest areas, ablution facilities, a cafeteria, and a convenience store — turning waiting time into productive, safe downtime.
NamPort CEO, Mr. Andrew Kanime, welcomed the initiative, describing it as an essential complement to NamPort’s ongoing infrastructure upgrades.
“The influx of trucks has led to inefficient traffic flow and strained relations between port operations and the town’s leadership. This facility will help streamline truck movements, restore order, and ensure that both the town and the port benefit from sustainable freight operations,” Kanime said.
He added that truck staging facilities are vital to maintaining Walvis Bay’s position as a preferred logistics gateway for Southern Africa.
Governor of the Erongo Region, Hon. Natalia Gôagoses, expressed strong support for the project, highlighting its potential to stimulate job creation, enhance cross-border trade efficiency, and protect municipal infrastructure.
The launch event, attended by key stakeholders from NamPort, Walvis Bay Oil Majors, Corridor Groups, Municipal departments and Traffic authorities, marked a unified step toward smarter and safer port logistics management for Walvis Bay and the broader region.
For More News And Analysis About Namibia Follow Africa-Press
