Walvis Bay: The Namibian Ports Authority (Namport) recorded a total cargo throughput of 8.42 million tonnes at the Ports of Walvis Bay and Lderitz for the financial year ending 31 March 2025. This represents a 4.8 per cent increase from the 8.03 million tonnes recorded in the previous year, highlighting Namport’s expanding influence as a key regional trade hub and economic enabler.
According to Namibia Press Agency, this upward trajectory, as detailed by Namport’s Executive for Commercial Services, Elias Mwenyo, in a media release on Tuesday, was driven by increased volumes in bulk, break-bulk, containerised, and liquid cargo. This growth was significantly supported by infrastructure investments, diversification strategies, and strong partnerships across the logistics and shipping sectors. Mwenyo highlighted the pivotal role of the mining sector, with notable increases in the export of copper concentrate, zinc concentrate, and uranium oxide through both national ports.
On the import side, Namport recorded a 7.1 per cent rise, largely attributed to a 12.8 per cent surge in bulk and break-bulk cargo, including fertiliser, sulphur, ammonium nitrate, petroleum, wheat, and machinery. Despite a 5.7 per cent decline in overall exports through the Port of Walvis Bay, the port achieved new milestones by facilitating the first-time export of critical minerals such as nickel and zinc concentrates, which positions Namibia as a future contender in the global mineral supply chain.
Other gains were noted in the export of salt bulk, copper and lead concentrates, charcoal, wooden products, and dimension stone. The Port of Lderitz demonstrated exceptional performance, with a 21.7 per cent year-on-year increase in total cargo volumes, rising from 1.21 million tonnes to 1.47 million tonnes. This growth was largely driven by a spike in imports, including empty containers, petroleum products, wet fish, and machinery, despite a 5.4 per cent decline in exports.
During this period, Namport achieved the highest container throughput in over a decade, handling 253,996 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units), reflecting a 33 per cent increase compared to the previous year. The statement noted that this increase signals growth in regional and international trade and reflects Namport’s strategic focus on attracting high-value cargo, enhancing port efficiency, and strengthening collaborations with shipping lines and cargo owners.