Hapag-Lloyd Strengthens African Presence with Expansion in Namibia, Rwanda and Burundi
Hapag-Lloyd is further expanding its footprint in Africa with new local operations in Namibia, Rwanda and Burundi, strengthening its presence across Southern and East Africa.
Effective October 1, 2026, the global shipping company has established its own local presence in Walvis Bay, Namibia, while a new setup in Kigali, Rwanda will serve customers in both Rwanda and neighbouring Burundi.
The expansion is designed to bring Hapag-Lloyd closer to customers while combining local market knowledge with the capabilities of its extensive African and global shipping network.
Strengthening Connections Across East Africa
For Rwanda and Burundi, the new Kigali presence builds on Hapag-Lloyd’s existing East African connectivity. Through Dar es Salaam, the carrier currently provides two weekly services supporting imports and exports, including direct connections with India and the Far East.
The new local setup will provide customers in these landlocked markets with closer access to Hapag-Lloyd’s customer support and logistics expertise.
Africa Remains a Key Growth Market
Africa continues to gain importance in international trade as economies develop, trade flows expand and supply chains become increasingly connected with global markets.
The latest expansion forms part of Hapag-Lloyd’s broader Strategy 2030, with the company continuing to invest in local teams, market expertise and stronger customer relationships across the continent.
According to Jesper Kanstrup, Managing Director Sub-Region Africa at Hapag-Lloyd, strengthening the company’s presence in Namibia, Rwanda and Burundi represents an important milestone in its continued development in Africa.
With new local operations and stronger regional connectivity, Hapag-Lloyd is reinforcing its long-term commitment to Africa and positioning itself closer to customers in some of the continent’s developing logistics markets.
Image source: hapag-lloyd.com
