Botswana’s SeaRail Increasing Capacity at Walvis Bay
SeaRail, the company that operates Botswana Dry Port in Walvis Bay, handled approximately 35,000 TEUs in 2023, reflecting a 15% increase from the 30,000 TEUs managed in 2022. This growth can be attributed to improved operational efficiencies, expanded service offerings, and strengthened trade relations within the region, the company said in response to questions.
The Botswana Dry Port manages a variety of cargo, including container handling, storage, reefer plug-in points, distribution, and other value-added services. The dry port facility is designated as an important strategic development for land-linked Botswana, with the key objective of increasing accessibility for the country and the rest of SADC by expediting import-export activities linking with Walvis Bay.
In terms of expansion plans, SeaRail intends to increase storage facilities, acquire advanced cargo handling equipment, and implement cutting-edge logistics technology to streamline operations. The company is also exploring new trade routes and partnerships to boost its regional and international reach. The dry port spans 36,233 square meters and includes 300 parking bays for vehicle storage. The container freight station can handle up to 1,000 TEUs. Additionally, it has a reefer station with 72 plug-in points for storing perishables in refrigerated containers.
Botswana primarily imports machinery, fuel, consumer goods, beverages, processed food, cement, fertilizers, fish, and industrial equipment via Walvis Bay. On the export side, the main commodities include minerals such as copper and coal, agricultural products, salt, chemicals, and manufactured goods.
The company said the Trans-Kalahari Corridor is vital to SeaRail’s operations. It provides a direct, efficient route connecting the Botswana Dry Port to major markets in Southern Africa. Regarding the planned Trans-Kalahari Railway and its potential impact on SeaRail operations, the company reckons that it is a promising development that could significantly boost SeaRail’s operations. The project will provide an additional transport link, complementing the existing road, sea, and rail connections. The Trans-Kalahari Railway is expected to enhance cargo movement efficiency, reduce transportation costs, and improve the overall logistics network within the region. SeaRail anticipates that the railway line will open new opportunities for trade and economic growth, benefiting its clients and the broader community.
The construction of the Trans-Kalahari Railway project, a collaborative effort between Namibia and Botswana, is poised to commence in January 2025. The project’s price tag is projected to amount to billions of US dollars. Spanning 1,500 kilometres, the railway line will stretch from Mmamabula in Botswana to its final destination, Walvis Bay, primarily serving as a conduit for transporting coal and copper from Botswana.
