Wesco inaugurates expanded Lüderitz depot
Bigger and better equipped
The expanded Wesco depot in the harbour town embodies the company's ideals of resilience, progress and environmental stewardship.
The expansion of Wesco’s Lüderitz depot is a proud moment which does not only signal growth but the promise of opportunity, development and a brighter future for the inhabitants of the coastal town and the entire //Kharas region. The upgraded depot, developed at a cost of N$10 million over two decades, meets stringent national and international environmental standards required to operate responsibly and sustainably.
The facility also allows the company to manage and treat a substantial volume of waste annually.
In doing so, Wesco ensures that ocean-dependent industries like Pescanova, Tunacor and Marco Fishing can operate in harmony with Lüderitz’s marine heritage.
Roots
The Wesco Group’s journey in Lüderitz began over two decades ago with a vision to provide essential services for industries.
"The company was established here with a mission to add value to the community. We started working from a container on a small piece of land with a few tanks and a small truck which the guys used to do oil collection with. Over time we acquired more land and slowly added to our facilities. Debmarine actually gave backbone to this business by supporting both the oil side and the engineering side of it,” explained owner George Fransman.
These days the company plays a crucial role in Namibia’s oil and gas industry.
Wesco has established contracts with major players like Total and Shell, partnerships that began in the exploration phase and continue today.
Upskilling
“This inauguration celebrates our expanded facility, not a new one, underscoring our established presence here in Lüderitz.
“While we remain dedicated to providing our established expertise in waste management and engineering services, our team is actively upskilling to meet industry demands especially with Namibia entering a new era of growth in the oil and gas sectors,” Fransman emphasised.
Mines and energy minister Tom Alweendo said in a speech read on his behalf by Martin Markis, the senior diamond inspector of Lüderitz at the inauguration of the expanded Wesco depot in the harbour town, that the company embodies the ideals of resilience, progress and environmental stewardship.
“Wesco directly employs 60 people across its waste management and engineering services divisions, with additional team members joining when work demands increase.”
Trendsetter
Alweendo said the company demonstrated that a green economy can create jobs, alleviate poverty and generate wealth while respecting the natural heritage of Namibia.
“With this expanded depot, Lüderitz stands poised to thrive as a model for balanced growth and an industrial centre that values both economic and environmental health.”
The minister highlighted that through its contributions in waste management and engineering services, Wesco supports critical industries like oil and gas, marine and mining.
He pointed out that in order to secure international contracts, Wesco had to undergo rigorous audits.
“This is a testament to the company's uncompromising commitment to quality and safety. Wesco has upheld these standards through consistent excellence, with their ISO accreditation underscoring their dedication to the highest levels of quality and safety,” the minister said.
Reliable
Alweendo added that through Wesco’s involvement, Namibia’s oil and gas sector has a dependable partner, ready to meet the industry’s demanding standards with expertise, precision and commitment.
“Wesco’s work with industry giants such as Debmarine Namibia, Kaseo, De Beers S and iLogistics has solidified Lüderitz’s role in Namibia’s industrial ecosystem.
“By working with both local and international companies, Wesco has positioned Lüderitz as a central player in supporting mining, marine and energy operations across the country. They manage both offshore and onshore projects, serving Namibia’s leading mining names, including Rossing, Navachab, B2Gold and Husab, among others.
Environmentally conscious
Alweendo also praised Wesco’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
“They actively promote sustainable practices, aligning with Namibia’s green economy goals. Wesco Waste Management Services has pioneered responsible waste management practices, with rigorous systems to collect, recycle and process oil-related waste, thereby preventing harmful pollutants from entering our natural surroundings.”
He further commended Wesco for aligning itself with Namibia's green economy goals.
“Being pioneers in waste management, they minimise environmental impact with robust recycling, waste collection and oil waste processing systems that safeguard Namibia’s natural resources. This dedication aligns with our ministry’s commitment to sustainable practices that protect our environment and support economic growth.”
The minister urged companies operating in the oil and gas sector to obtain "licenses to operate".
“This is earned through demonstrated commitments to improving people’s lives and uplifting communities. Obtaining a permit is only the beginning. Many are asking how the recent offshore oil discoveries will benefit our local communities.
“It’s a vital question that we take seriously, particularly as we have seen past investments falling short of meaningful local impact.”
Community pillar
The mayor of Lüderitz, Phill Balhao, said the facility will have lasting positive impacts on the local economy, community and environment.
“The company's presence has revitalised the economy of the town, creating a ripple effect that boosts local accommodation, retail and service sectors, bringing both revenue and vibrancy to the community.
“The company now also supports engineering services for offshore projects, bringing new skills and job opportunities directly to our community.”
Balhao also underscored Wesco’s commitment which he said extends far beyond their operational scope.
“They are a pillar of our community and enriches Lüderitz’s social and economic fabric. Their corporate social responsibility initiatives support local schools, the Helping Hands organisation and various local events, including the annual Crayfish Festival. This dedication underscores their belief in uplifting the communities they serve.”