Online Reporter
Yeukai Karengezeka-Herald Correspondent
IN a significant step towards promoting the ease-of-doing business, Mutare Dry Port will have a new terminal operating system designed to enhance efficiency and transform its operations.
The dry port will become the leading logistics hub in Zimbabwe serving the Sadc region in innovativeness, quality of service, profit and market share in all selected areas of logistics.
The latest technology will be applied in all operations conducted from a modern, orderly and well-structured terminal.
It will be used to stimulate trade in a prosperous, sustainable and cost-effective manner. The modern terminal will continue to develop and respond to the market needs within the region.
Located strategically near the Forbes Border Post with Mozambique and directly connected to the Port of Beira, Mutare Dry Port is a vital inland logistics hub for Zimbabwe.
It is the only container-handling facility in Mutare, offering both storage and dry port services and is accessible by rail and road.
Mutare Dry Port general manager, Mr Lawrence Takawira, expressed optimism about the anticipated improvements the new system will bring.
“We have been doing things manually for years. For example, when trucks arrived, we recorded details like the truck number, transporter, and time of entry in books. If a physical examination was needed by customs, the driver or client had to go to the office to book the service, and we had to collect the same information again,” he explained.
“This repetitive process required significant resources, such as stationery, and was time-consuming.
“After completing the physical examination and receiving clearance from ZIMRA, trucks could only then leave the facility.
“With the new system, all details will now be entered electronically at the entrance. These details will be instantly relayed to the booking office and the exit point,” Mr Takawira said.
