ASIAFRICA Logistics Ensures Safe and Reliable Delivery for Asian Traders

Elias Hakizimana Mar 13, 2024Mar 13, 2024 0 Comments

By Elias HAKIZIMANA.

In the realm of international trade, ensuring the secure transportation of goods is paramount. ASIAFRICA Logistics Ltd, a key player in facilitating trade between Africa and Asia, stands as a beacon of reliability, assuring traders of the safety of their shipments, particularly in China.

Acknowledging the complexities of transportation logistics, ASIAFRICA Logistics remains steadfast in its commitment to providing top-tier safety standards.

Faustin Bintunimana, the Manager of ASIAFRICA Logistics in Rwanda, underscores their dedication to introducing innovative methods that empower traders. From streamlining transactions to offering storage solutions and financial support, ASIAFRICA Logistics is dedicated to optimizing trade performance.

The company began operations in Rwanda in 2014, witnessing remarkable progress in their collaborations. According to Bintunimana, “We often start by sending one CBM (cubic meter) per year, which gradually increases to 40 CBM.”

Additionally, the company has introduced new technological approaches to assist traders in tracking the progress of their shipments, as Bintunimana Faustin, the manager of ASIAFRICA in Rwanda, explains.

He says, “If something leaves the warehouse and is loaded onto a ship, arrives in Mombasa or Dar es Salaam, and then reaches the Rwandan border, we have a tracking system for the container that allows the recipient to track its progress on their phone.”

However, some challenges persist, especially with shipping lines that determine the timeframe for delivering goods. For instance, when a shipment takes longer than expected, traders may face delays or incur additional costs.

Bintunimana elaborates, “If you send a shipment and expect it to arrive after, say, 30, 35, or 40 days, we notify the shipping line to ensure it arrives in Kigali from China. Sometimes, a shipping line may decide to first unload in Singapore and then sail elsewhere, which delays the process. There are also shipping lines that leave China, reach Dar es Salaam or Mombasa, and have no further destination on the route. When this happens, they use the time to restock or refuel before continuing to other countries.”

Moreover, traders are also concerned about safety issues at sea, where shipments face various risks, including piracy. However, all containers leaving China and other countries are provided with security measures to ensure safe delivery, with no incidents reported thus far.

Jean Marie Vianney Habimana, a clothing vendor in Kigali known as Karitsiye Mateus, appreciates the services provided by ASIAFRICA Logistics Ltd.

He says, “Since I started working with them, I’ve had fewer problems compared to other companies. Their collaboration has boosted my business, and they often introduce new services that benefit us. They have also helped me overcome challenges along the way, ensuring timely payments, despite the risks of boats being delayed or encountering rough seas or storms. We are very grateful. In other companies, there are times when things go wrong, get lost, or payments are delayed.”

Mr. Lister from China, the General Manager of ASIAFRICA Logistics Ltd (with the microphone), expresses their intention to collaborate with Rwanda due to the favorable leadership in the country, which has created a conducive environment for traders and investors.He says, “This country is good; it is safe, and we want to strengthen ties between China and Rwanda by facilitating traders and shipments from China to Rwanda. This will contribute to the development of both countries. We assure our clients that we will do everything possible to ensure the safety of their shipments and their timely arrival, at a good price.”

He also assures traders that their safety is guaranteed because the boats and trucks used for transportation are well-equipped, and the merchandise has been carefully packaged to avoid any issues during shipment.