Freight provider TNT Express has signed an import service agreement with Somal Post, the country's postal network. The Somalia operation will be coordinated out of TNT's Middle East, Africa and India hub in Dubai.
According to Somal Post Chairman Sharif Ahmed Sharif, Somalia was recovering from a lengthy period of civil war. "But things are definitely improving and the time is right for TNT to come in with such a comprehensive service. The economy is definitely heading in the right direction, telecommunications is very strong."
TNT's consignments will come from all over the world to the Dutch-owned firm's hub in Dubai then be forwarded to Somalia, in these early stages with Somalia's Juba Airways which flies to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) twice-weekly.
Initially consignments are likely to be documents and parcels. Many of these will probably be sent by Somali expatriates, especially in Canada and Britain. However, the range is quickly expected to stretch to aid, spare parts and textiles, stated a press release.
Established in 1946, TNT Express is a global integrator and offers a range of international express delivery services between more than two hundred countries. The company employs more than 40,000 people and have a fleet of 43 jet freighter aircraft together with 20,000 road vehicles organized by a worldwide network of nearly 1,000 company owned depots. — (menareport.com)
© 2004 Mena Report (www.menareport.com)
