DHL set to boost Africa's oil and energy sector

The centres will offer customers specialist expertise in oil and energy logistics, as the continent is poised to become a global energy powerhouse.

DHL says that oil and energy production within Africa grew from 370 million tonnes in 2000 to 459 million tonnes in 2009 and the continent is expected to maintain, if not exceed, this growth rate in the medium-term. African oil production capacity is anticipated to reach 7.4 million barrels a day by 2014 and with the growing global demand for energy Africa has become a key investment destination.

Amadou Diallo, CEO, Africa and South Asia Pacific, DHL Global Forwarding said: "With 10 percent of the world's oil in Africa, a swiftly growing economy, businesses and investors around the world are tapping into the potential of Africa. DHL's oil and energy centres of excellence will give customers the ability to consult our logistics experts who not only know logistics, but understand the intricacies of the oil and energy sector, to build an effective supply chain solution that can leverage our connections across 220 countries and territories around the world."

The company says that by the second quarter of 2012, DHL's Oil and Energy centres of excellence in Africa will comprise of a team of industry professionals who will consult with, design and implement logistics solutions for oil and energy companies that will allow them to overcome common sector - and region-specific challenges relating to, amongst other factors, diverse customs environments as well as remote production locations.

"Africa's most important economic driver remains its resources, this is in spite of the continent's rapid urbanisation and industrialisation. With investment interest in the continent growing, it is essential that Africa builds on the current momentum and develops its business infrastructure in order for the continent to remain globally competitive," concluded Diallo.