In the photo from left to right: Duncan Wagura, Managing Director of SGL Kenya and Anders Johansen, Senior Director Africa – Air & Ocean
Scan Global Logistics (SGL), the ambitious freight forwarder, continues its strategic expansion in Africa with the opening of a second office in Kenya, located in the coastal city of Mombasa. This move comes six months after successfully establishing its presence in the Kenyan market by inaugurating an office in Nairobi in April 2023.
The Mombasa office marks SGL’s 12th venture on the African continent, further solidifying its strategic position within the region. The coastal city, renowned as a major port of discharge in East and Central Africa, serves as a pivotal gateway for the company’s operations.
Enhanced Local and Regional Competence
Collaborating with the existing Nairobi office, this dual representation empowers SGL to compete effectively with industry leaders. The aim is to provide customers with competitive local and regional logistics solutions, elevating the company’s standing in the rapidly growing Kenyan logistics landscape.
Improving Customer Service through Direct Presence
The Mombasa office positions SGL to directly manage operations and inquiries without relying on agents. This hands-on approach ensures improved services, efficient cargo handling, and timely clearance, resulting in enhanced efficiency and cost savings for customers. Michael Mnyubi, the Operations Manager of the Mombasa office, highlights the strategic importance of having a direct presence in East Africa’s largest seaport.
Strategic Move Aligned with Kenya’s Logistics Growth
Kenya’s logistics potential has been on the rise, fueled by enhanced infrastructure, including the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) connecting Mombasa to Nairobi. SGL recognizes the significance of Mombasa as a crucial logistics hub and is well-prepared to harness its strategic location for seamless operations in East and Central Africa.
Preparing for Wider Growth in Africa
With eyes on the continent’s promising future, characterized by a population of 1.5 billion people and a rapidly growing middle class, SGL’s expansion strategy encompasses Senegal, Mali, the Ivory Coast, Togo, Benin, and South Africa. However, the company sees substantial potential for growth, particularly in Kenya. The Mombasa office positions SGL strategically to tap into the flourishing markets in Eastern and Central Africa.
Duncan Wagura, Managing Director of SGL Kenya, expresses enthusiasm about the strategic move, stating, “Mombasa’s strategic location positions us to effectively serve the promising markets in Eastern and Central Africa. We look forward to further strengthening our presence in Kenya and Africa, providing local and global customers with comprehensive, efficient, end-to-end solutions.”
Team and Services
The Mombasa office will be staffed by seven experienced logistics professionals, initially focusing on providing end-to-end, tailor-made solutions. This includes services such as customs clearance, transhipment, and warehousing, further solidifying SGL’s commitment to delivering comprehensive logistics solutions.