By Mark Kawalya
SEND, a Nigerian freight forwarder, has announced plans to roll out its services in East and South Africa, a move that is aimed at supporting intra-African trade.
SEND runs an all-inclusive software platform that streamlines supply chain management processes such as customs clearance and trade financing. By expanding into Kenya, Uganda, and South Africa, the firm aims to simplify the export of agro-commodities to boost intra-African and intercontinental trade.
SEND’s CEO, Larry Oti, talked about the plans for expanding its footprint, explaining that the strategy will involve setting up a physical presence in these countries, leveraging on their geographical advantages and market potential.
The firm plans to enter the Kenyan and Ugandan markets in the third quarter of 2023, while South African market penetration is set for the fourth quarter. Oti underscores the value of local partnerships to foster a seamless market entry, with discussions underway with potential partners in the host countries.
“Our expansion into Kenya, Uganda, and South Africa marks an important milestone for SEND. We are committed to empowering trade logistics in Africa and facilitating intra-African and intercontinental trade. By establishing a physical presence in these key markets, we aim to provide seamless and efficient services to our customers while contributing to the economic growth of African countries,” said Oti.
In the past, established international logistics firms have been out of reach for many businesses operating in Africa. This has created an opportunity for digital logistics firms like SEND to stand in the gap and offer reliable and accessible services.
SEND started its operations in 2020, and the firm offers seamless end-to-end management of cargo shipping processes such as customs clearance, warehousing, and trucking. Users of the service benefit from real-time tracking of their cargo, which ensures seamless monitoring of shipments. The firm offers multiple cargo transportation modes, including ocean freight, air freight, and inland transportation.
SEND has a vision to transform the trade and logistics landscape in Africa by facilitating seamless supply chain operations using the firm’s digital freight forwarding and customs brokerage platform.
