WHEN Dutch Health sought a fleet of trucks for its Tanzanian client, one key requirement was a strong Dutch connection. Traditionally a provider of medical equipment and healthcare solutions, Dutch Health recently expanded its services to assist a Tanzanian client with the financing and procurement of a large fleet of trucks.
Usangu Logistics, aiming to become a leading surface logistics and road transportation company in East and Central Africa, required 30 new trucks to support its expansion into Southern Africa. This strategic move enhances its ability to provide land-based logistical solutions to a growing regional client base. Securing finance for a large capital purchase is often challenging, particularly in an environment where financial institutions are increasingly risk-averse.
While Dutch Health had not previously operated in the heavy transport sector, the company demonstrated remarkable agility in securing a turnkey finance solution for the acquisition of 30 DAF CF430 FTT trucks from Babcock, the sole distributor of DAF Trucks
in Southern Africa.
A key factor in securing the deal was the requirement from Dutch Health’s Netherlands-based funding partner that at least 20% of the truck components originate from the Netherlands. With DAF’s strong Dutch heritage, Babcock was well-positioned to meet this criterion.
“Our collaboration with Dutch Health and ability to deliver the right vehicle specifications were key factors in Usangu’s decision to choose DAF Trucks,” says Alfred Hoyer, sales representative at Babcock.
The trucks, delivered with flat-deck trailers for transporting various goods, were handed over in 2024. As part of the process, Babcock sent two technicians to conduct pre-delivery inspections at Usangu Logistics’ Tanzanian depot. Additionally, a shipment of genuine DAF parts was provided to support the fleet’s operations. While Usangu Logistics has the capability to service its trucks locally, they can also be maintained in South Africa during trips to the region.
Looking ahead, Babcock and Dutch Health are collaborating on the procurement of an additional 30 DAF units for Usangu Logistics and exploring new opportunities for other African customers.
“We are pleased with the successful delivery of the Tanzanian project in close cooperation with Babcock. This partnership was executed with full transparency, and we are currently working on two more projects in Africa involving DAF Trucks,” says Pieter Wiemers, MD of Dutch Health BV.
