The Walvis Bay Corridor Group proudly marked a significant milestone: 25 years of successful corridor operations. This anniversary underscores the organisation’s vital role in boosting trade facilitation, encouraging regional integration, and supporting economic growth across Southern Africa. The celebration was held on Friday, 19 September 2025.
Established in 2000, the WBCG was created with a clear mission to engage in strategic business development activities aimed at increasing cargo traffic through the Port of Walvis Bay and its associated corridors. The organization has consistently focused on enhancing corridor and infrastructure development to ensure that transportation routes remain efficient and effective in meeting the demands of regional trade. Since its establishment, the WBCG has successfully increased cargo volumes along the Walvis Bay Corridors by promoting imports and exports through the Ports of Walvis Bay and Lüderitz. This initiative is vital for the economic vitality of the region, connecting Southern African countries to global trade networks.
The Walvis Bay Corridors comprise an extensive network of transport routes linking the Port of Walvis Bay to several neighboring countries within the Southern African Development Community (SADC), including South Africa, Botswana, Angola, Zimbabwe, Zambia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Malawi. The key corridors include:
– Trans Kalahari Corridor: This route facilitates trade between Botswana and South Africa, enhancing economic cooperation between these nations.
– Walvis Bay-Ndola-Lubumbashi Development Corridor: This corridor links Zambia, Zimbabwe, Malawi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, providing critical access to regional markets.
– Trans-Cunene Corridor: This route enhances connectivity between Namibia and Angola, fostering improved trade relations.
– Trans-Oranje Corridor: This corridor connects South Africa with the Port of Lüderitz, facilitating logistical operations for trade originating from the south.
The anniversary event was attended by distinguished dignitaries, influential industry leaders, and key development partners, reflecting the collaborative efforts that drive regional success. The keynote address was delivered by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Industries, Mines, and Energy, Hon. Natangwe Ithete, representing H.E. Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, the President of the Republic of Namibia. Additionally, remarks were provided by Hon. Veikko Nekundi, Minister of Works and Transport, and Mr. Mike Salawou, Director of Infrastructure & Urban Development at the African Development Bank Group, who emphasized the critical importance of strategic investments in transport infrastructure for sustainable regional development.
A highlight of the evening was the Posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award of the Highest Order, awarded to Dr. Sam Shafiishuna Nujoma, the Founding Father of Namibia. This prestigious honor recognized his visionary leadership and pioneering contributions to the development of Namibia’s transport infrastructure and trade corridors. Hon. Pendukeni Iivula-Ithana accepted the award on behalf of the Sam Nujoma Foundation, highlighting the enduring legacy of Dr. Nujoma’s impact on the nation.
Furthermore, several awards were presented to acknowledge excellence in leadership and commitment within the transport and logistics sector. These accolades recognized the contributions of individuals, companies, and institutions that have played a vital role in advancing corridor development, showcasing the significant impact of their efforts on regional logistics and trade efficiency.
As the WBCG reflects on this noteworthy anniversary, it reaffirms its unwavering commitment to positioning Namibia as the preferred trade route and logistics hub for the SADC region. The organization aims to promote sustainable economic growth and enhance regional prosperity for the future. By continuing to foster collaboration and innovation, the WBCG aspires to build a robust trade network that benefits all member states involved.
