Zimbabwe’s Unifreight Africa plans capacity expansion amid tobacco surge

Unifreight Africa Limited, a Zimbabwe-based logistics operator, has outlined plans to expand its transport capacity in 2026 as it prepares for higher tobacco volumes in the country. The company is targeting more than 100 million kilograms, up from 84 million kilograms handled in 2025. The increase is expected to be supported by efforts to improve efficiency and expand operations, including a planned acquisition of a controlling stake in a local logistics business.

The company said the expansion will focus on adding trucks and trailers and improving route planning systems to shorten turnaround times during peak marketing periods. It plans to strengthen relationships with farmers, merchants, and other clients across the tobacco value chain to secure consistent cargo volumes throughout the season. Management expects these measures to support higher fleet utilization and improve service reliability and capacity.

Zimbabwe tobacco surge strains logistics chains

Tobacco remains Zimbabwe’s largest agricultural export and continues to draw strong participation from smallholder farmers. Production has been rising in recent seasons, supported by relatively favorable pricing conditions and expanded cultivation. As output grows, logistics providers are under increasing pressure to move larger volumes efficiently, particularly during auction and contract sales periods when transport demand typically spikes.

Competition in haulage has increased as operators respond to demand for transport services linking auction floors, storage facilities, and processing sites. Companies are adopting fleet renewal programs and operational upgrades to maintain service levels while managing maintenance and fuel costs. Unifreight said it is considering financing arrangements and partnerships to modernize parts of its fleet and reduce vehicle downtime in Zimbabwe this year.

Capacity growth, logistics stake deal pending

The company’s ability to reach its 100 million kilogram target depends on external factors, including crop output, fuel supply stability, and transport infrastructure across key routes. Weather patterns and seasonal disruptions could also affect volumes and timing in the marketing cycle. The company said incremental capacity improvements and coordination across its network would help it handle higher demand if conditions remain stable overall.

In a separate development, Unifreight Africa said it has entered a definitive agreement to acquire a controlling stake in another Zimbabwean logistics firm, according to a cautionary announcement. The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals, closing conditions, and third-party consents. The company did not disclose financial terms. If completed, it could affect the price of its securities and reshape its position in the domestic logistics sector.