Walvis Bay Port lobby group appoints new Chairperson

The revived Walvis Bay Port Users Association recently welcomed Riaan Lottering as its new chairperson.

The association said in a statement, there is a clear need to re-establish the port users association so that its members can confidently participate in addressing issues of concern with various ministerial offices involved in the logistics and fishing sectors. Lottering said that he is ready to pursue his new position with vigour.

Discussing his intended first actions as chairperson, Lottering said, “In order to provide the service expected of us by our members, we will have to reorganise and streamline our operations.” This, he said, requires a relook at membership to ensure that the association complies with the minimum requirement as far as good governance is concerned.

With 26 years in the industry, Lottering brings with him a wealth of experience in the fishing sector, with stevedores, shipping and clearing agencies. He holds a Diploma in Vessel Management from London’s Lloyd’s Maritime College and a Masters in Business Administration in Shipping and Logistics from Middlesex University.

The port users association said it engages various government institutions, and represents all entities associated with cargo, freight and shipping activities at the Port of Walvis Bay. Lottering explained that the association, on behalf of members, ensures that problems of a common nature are resolved through one body as opposed to individual companies approaching the ministries involved.

On the current expansion of the port, he said it holds many opportunities, adding that it benefits the association’s members. “Once the new development is completed, the additional space will make it possible for more vessels to dock, creating an influx of business” he elaborated.

“The decision to invest in a project of this nature and magnitude was a worthy step towards steering the Port to becoming the first choice amongst consumers on the West Coast,” Lottering said.

With the objective to uplift the quality level of service in the Logistics Industry and to assist members in annual rate increase negotiations; the new chairperson said that there will always be a need for a platform where companies can gather and discuss problems of common interest, find solutions and share knowledge.

Similarly, Lottering said that he we will have to ensure that all members carry out their operations in a way that complies with the laws.