A new initiative launched in Walvis Bay on Tuesday, 14 October 2025, aims to tackle the ongoing truck congestion in the harbour town, creating a safer, more efficient, and respectful environment for long-haul drivers and logistics operators.
The Walvis Bay Truck Park and Staging Area features a modern ticketing and scheduling system designed to regulate truck access to the port and key logistics terminals. This facility will provide secure parking, rest areas, and essential services for drivers, helping to bring order to public roads and alleviate pressure on local infrastructure.
Currently, approximately 600 trucks traverse Walvis Bay daily, creating significant strain on the roads and raising major traffic and safety concerns. Many trucks are forced to park along residential streets while waiting for clearance to enter the port, leading Mr. Cliff Shikwambi of NamPort to describe the situation as an “eyesore” and a challenge for the town’s infrastructure management.
During the launch event, Mr. Dries Oberholzer, the brain behind the Walvis Bay Truck Park and Staging Area, stressed the need to develop a logistics ecosystem that balances economic growth with operational efficiency and the welfare of drivers.
“A busy port is something to celebrate, but it must operate efficiently and sustainably,” he remarked. “This initiative transforms a current challenge into an opportunity, enhancing turnaround times, improving safety, and creating a structured logistics hub that benefits the entire region.”
He highlighted that trade corridor expansion linked to Walvis Bay in the past five years has resulted in a spike in international freight movement, underscoring the necessity for coordinated logistics planning and infrastructure improvements.
Recent congestion near the port and adjacent industrial zones has also sparked safety concerns, particularly where unregulated truck parking hinders emergency access. The new ticketing system aims to restore order by scheduling truck entry into the harbour and logistics terminals, enhancing flow and reducing waiting times.
Situated at Farm 38 next to the Dr. Hifikepunye Pohamba Freeway, the facility is strategically positioned to serve as the initial point of entry for heavy vehicles arriving at the port. It will accommodate over 150 trucks at a time, offering drivers rest areas, ablution facilities, a cafeteria, and a convenience store — turning waiting time into productive, safe downtime.
Mr. Andrew Kanime, CEO of NamPort, welcomed the initiative, describing it as a crucial addition 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 both the town and the port enjoy sustainable freight operations,” Kanime stated.
He also emphasized that truck staging facilities are essential to maintaining Walvis Bay’s status as a preferred logistics gateway for Southern Africa.
Governor of the Erongo Region, Hon. Natalia Gôagoses, and Walvis Bay Mayor, Mr. Trevino Forbes, both strongly endorsed the project, highlighting its potential to create jobs, enhance cross-border trade efficiency, and safeguard municipal infrastructure.
“This development goes beyond just infrastructure — it represents an investment in the resilience and sustainability of Walvis Bay as a key regional logistics hub,” Forbes remarked.
The launch event, attended by key stakeholders from NamPort, Walvis Bay Oil Majors, Corridor Groups, municipal departments, and traffic authorities, marked a decisive step toward smarter and safer port logistics management for both Walvis Bay and the broader region.
