MALAWI: Central Corridor Agency Tackles Delays In Goods Clearance  

By Smile Hamilton, Malawi 

The Central Corridor Transit Transport Facilitation Agency (CCTTFA) is working with stakeholders in member countries, including Malawi, to address persistent delays in clearing goods along the central corridor. This critical trade route connects landlocked countries to the port of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania.

According to Engineer Melchior Barantandikiye, CCTTFA’s Director of Freight Logistics and Transit Facilitation, one major issue is the numerous checkpoints that slow down the transportation process. “We want to reduce the number of checkpoints, which contribute significantly to delays in delivering goods to their final destination on time,” he explained.

The agency’s engagement with stakeholders in Malawi aims to find solutions to these challenges. Daudi Piasi, Senior Economist in the Ministry of Transport and Public Works, and Mcknight Banda, Vice President of the Indigenous Clearing and Forwarding Association, both emphasized the importance of these discussions.

“These engagements are crucial for improving the efficiency of our trade corridors and reducing costs for businesses,” said Piasi. Banda added, “By streamlining processes and reducing checkpoints, we can make a significant difference in the time it takes for goods to reach their destination.”

The CCTTFA’s efforts are expected to enhance regional trade facilitation and promote economic growth.