Indian Ocean port of Beira is intact and functional in the aftermath of Cyclone Idai, as confirmed by the port’s business stakeholders, assuring Malawian importers and exporters of the port’s wellness.

Cornelder Mozambique Managing Director, Jan de Vries, stated that though the cyclone affected some operations at the port, the facility is back to normal business. The confirmation was much needed as Beira port offers the shortest distance to the sea for Malawian importers and exporters, who were skeptic about business at the port since Cyclone Idai occurred. “There are some inconveniences, like staff sharing offices, but operations are back to normal” De Vries said.

Malawi Confederation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (MCCCI) Director of Business Environment and Advocacy, Madalitso Kazembe, said also took the meeting as a platform to address problems faced by Malawians at the port. “Transporters are subjected to high toll gate fees and penalties. For example, up to $400 to reach Beira, thus making local transport uncompetitive as these charges are transferred to clients,” Kazembe said.