Cameroon - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

WALAR stands for Water, Air, Land & Railways. It is a digital freight forwarder project that combines digital technology with in-depth industry expertise. We aim to improve logistics operations for all with business intelligence and AI.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

WALAR is the first digital freight forwarder platform in Central Africa designed to streamline and optimize the logistics and shipping industry. By leveraging advanced technology and data analytics, we provide a seamless end-to-end solution for managing freight shipments. Our platform offers real-time tracking, automated documentation, dynamic pricing, and efficient route planning. It connects shippers with a network of trusted carriers, ensuring transparency and reliability throughout the shipping process. Additionally, our solution includes a user-friendly interface, robust customer support, and integration capabilities with existing systems such as mobile payments and WhatsApp notifications, making it an ideal choice for African businesses looking to enhance their logistics operations. We already have clients from several industries, such as CIMPOR (cement producer), Cadyst (food industry), DHL and Globo (logistics)

01.02 What is the main problem you are trying to solve?

Our main goal is to address the inefficiencies and lack of transparency in the logistics in Central Africa. Traditional freight forwarding processes are often manual, time-consuming, and prone to errors, leading to delays, increased costs, and poor customer experiences. By digitizing and automating these processes, we aim to: Enhance Efficiency: Streamline operations through automation, reducing manual tasks and accelerating the entire shipping process. Improve Transparency: Provide real-time tracking and visibility into shipments, ensuring all parties are informed and up-to-date. Optimize Costs: Utilize data analytics for dynamic pricing and route optimization, helping businesses save on shipping costs. Ensure Reliability: Connect shippers with a network of vetted carriers, ensuring dependable and timely deliveries. Simplify Documentation: Automate and digitize documentation, reducing paperwork and minimizing errors.

01.03 Tell us the major benefits and/or advantages of using the product/service that your project intends to provide (at least 3).

WALAR offers several major benefits and advantages: Enhanced Efficiency and Speed: By automating manual processes and integrating advanced technology, our platform significantly reduces the time required for booking, tracking, and managing shipments. This leads to faster turnaround times and more efficient logistics operations. Real-time Visibility and Transparency: Our platform provides real-time tracking and updates on shipments, offering complete visibility to shippers and carriers. This transparency helps in better decision-making, improves customer satisfaction, and reduces the risk of lost or delayed shipments. Cost Optimization: Utilizing data analytics and dynamic pricing algorithms, our solution optimizes shipping routes and pricing, enabling businesses to save on logistics costs. Additionally, by minimizing manual errors and delays, companies can avoid unnecessary expenses, customs fines and improve their bottom line.

01.04 Please describe who exactly your project is aimed at serving. Who are the targeted beneficiaries?

WALAR is aimed at serving a diverse range of stakeholders in the supply chain industry. The primary targeted beneficiaries include: Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs): SMEs often lack the resources to manage complex logistics operations. Our user-friendly and cost-effective solution enables them to enhance their capabilities by providing them with access to advanced logistics tools and services. Supply Chain Managers: Professionals responsible for overseeing logistics and supply chain operations can benefit from our platform's real-time visibility, automated documentation, and improved decision-making capabilities. Shippers: Businesses that need to transport goods domestically or internationally can benefit from our platform’s efficiency, transparency, and cost savings. This includes manufacturers, retailers, e-commerce companies, and wholesalers.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2023-01-01

01.06 How many other partners are associated with your business venture?

2

01.07 Among the other partners, how many are female?

1

01.08 Please describe the profile of each of the other partners (skills, experience, etc.)

1. Franklin Mbonang is an industrial engineer with over 10 years of experience in IT services and retail networks. He comprehensively understands user experiences and has successfully led teams in optimizing processes, including stock management, distribution, and mobile payments. Franklin has valuable experience working in African countries such as Congo, Cameroon, and Equatorial Guinea. Precious Oben is an IT engineer with a great portfolio of clients as a former freelance consultant. She has a strong background in software development, system architecture, and cybersecurity and has led numerous successful projects from conception to deployment in the e-commerce industry.

01.09 If you have a website, a social media page (Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin…), or app, please provide the link here:

01.10 Which industry best describes your project?

c) Industry (equipment, commercial, logistical and professional services, transport)

02.01.01 My project contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

WALAR ensures the steady flow of goods, even in times of crisis. This can help prevent economic disruptions that disproportionately affect the poor and vulnerable populations. By addressing these following areas, WALAR aligns with the UN' SDGs, particularly Goal 1. a) Economic Growth and Efficiency: By streamlining logistics, it can help businesses operate more efficiently. Lower operational costs can translate into lower prices for consumers and higher profit margins for businesses, stimulating economic growth and increasing the overall economic activity in a region. b) Market Access for SMEs: WALAR can provide SMEs with the tools and services they need to compete in larger markets. By offering affordable and efficient logistics solutions. This, in turn, can lift many small business owners and their employees out of poverty. c) Inclusive Trade Businesses in remote areas can participate in global trade, providing opportunities for economic development in regions that are left behind.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

6

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

WALAR significantly reduces hunger by improving the efficiency and reliability of food supply chains, reducing food waste, and ensuring better access to markets for food producers. Here’s how: a) Efficient Supply Chains: It streamlines logistics processes, ensuring that food products move quickly and efficiently from producers to consumers. b) Reducing Food Waste: By optimizing routes and providing real-time tracking, WALAR helps minimize delays and spoilage. Efficient logistics management ensures that perishable goods are delivered promptly, reducing the amount of food that is wasted due to spoilage or improper handling. c) Cost Reduction: Our service helps reduce transportation costs through better route planning and load optimization. Lower logistics costs can translate into lower prices for food.

02.03.01 My project contributes to the Good health and well-being goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

WALAR contributes significantly to good health and well-being in several ways. Here’s how: a) Efficient Delivery of Medical Supplies: - Timely Transportation: It optimizes logistics processes to ensure that critical medical supplies, including medications, vaccines, and medical equipment, are delivered promptly to healthcare facilities, especially in underserved areas. - Temperature Control: It provides real-time tracking and monitoring of shipments, ensuring that sensitive medical supplies are stored and transported under appropriate conditions. b) Food Safety and Quality: - Minimizing Contamination: By using advanced tracking and monitoring technologies. - Ensuring Freshness: Efficient logistics processes minimize transit times, ensuring that perishable food items arrive fresh and in good condition. c) Reducing Emissions: By optimizing routes and consolidating shipments, WALAR help reduce the carbon footprint of transportation.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

6

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

WALAR contributes to good education by ensuring the efficient delivery of educational materials and promoting educational opportunities through economic development. a) Efficient Delivery of Educational Materials - Cost Reduction: By reducing transportation costs through efficient logistics, educational institutions can allocate more funds to purchasing high-quality educational materials. _ Technology Deployment: It can facilitate the delivery of essential technological equipment, such as computers, tablets, and internet infrastructure, necessary for digital learning environments. b) Promoting Educational Access and Equity By providing reliable logistics services, WALAR ensures that students in marginalized areas have access to the same educational resources as those in urban centers.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

5

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

WALAR has implemented a set of policies in order to ensure gender equality. a) Diverse Hiring Practices: We ensure a balanced workforce with equal opportunities for women in all roles, from entry-level positions to leadership. b) Custom Solutions: We develop solutions that address the specific needs of women in various sectors, including education, and small businesses , ensuring that women benefit from improved logistics services.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

5

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

WALAR surely has an indirect impact on clean water but it remains powerful. a) Timely Transport of Water Treatment Chemicals and Equipment: By optimizing logistics processes, it ensures that water treatment chemicals, filtration systems, and other necessary equipment are delivered promptly to areas that need them. b) Distribution of Sanitation Supplies: We facilitate the efficient distribution of sanitation products, such as soap, disinfectants, and hygiene kits, to communities and healthcare facilities, particularly in remote or underserved areas.

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

6

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

There are several ways in which Walar provides a core value to access to affordable and clean energy. a) Reduced Emissions: By optimizing delivery routes and using data analytics, we minimize fuel consumption and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This supports the overall goal of reducing the carbon footprint of logistics operations. b) Timely Delivery of Components: By enhancing logistics processes, we ensure the timely and cost-effective delivery of renewable energy components such as solar panels, wind turbines, and batteries. This helps reduce delays and costs associated with the installation and maintenance of renewable energy systems. c) Specialized Handling: Ensuring proper handling and transportation of sensitive and bulky renewable energy equipment to prevent damage and ensure operational efficiency upon delivery.

02.08.01 My project contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

7 - Strongly Agree

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification

By improving logistics efficiency, we create job opportunities, support small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and promote sustainable economic practices. a) Direct Employment: We create jobs in logistics, technology, customer service, and management. This provides a diverse range of employment opportunities across different skill levels. b) Market Access: By providing efficient and affordable logistics solutions, we enable SMEs to reach larger markets, both domestically and internationally. This helps small businesses grow on wider markets.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

7 - Strongly Agree

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

WALAR is leveraging technology to optimize logistics processes, supporting the development of modern infrastructure, and driving innovation within the industry. a) Advanced Data Analytics: we use big data and analytics to optimize routes, predict demand, and enhance supply chain efficiency. This leads to reduced operational costs, faster delivery times, and improved reliability. b) Real-Time Tracking and Monitoring: we implement IoT devices and real-time tracking systems to monitor logistics operations. This increases transparency, reduces losses, and enhances overall efficiency. c) Digital Platforms: we develop and implement a digital platform that facilitates seamless communication and transaction between shippers, carriers, and customers. This fosters innovation in how logistics services are delivered and managed.

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

6

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

We reduce inequalities by promoting inclusive economic opportunities, supporting SMEs, ensuring access to logistics services in underserved areas, and fostering fair labor practices. a) Equal access to services: We provide equal access to logistics services for businesses of all sizes, including those in remote and underserved areas. b) Affordability: By optimizing logistics processes and reducing costs, we make shipping services more affordable. This allows smaller businesses and entrepreneurs to compete more effectively in the market.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

6

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

Walar addresses several topics related to the United Nations' Sustainable Development goal 11. a) Inclusive services: We ensure that logistics services are accessible to all parts of the city, including underserved and marginalized communities, promoting equitable access to goods and services. b) Consolidated Shipments: We combine multiple shipments into fewer trips to maximize load efficiency, reducing the number of vehicles on the road and lowering emissions. c) Real-time Monitoring: We utilize IoT and real-time tracking technologies to monitor shipments, ensure timely deliveries and reduce the risk of disruptions. This enhances the resilience and reliability of supply chains, crucial for urban areas.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

6

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

WALAR contributes significantly to responsible consumption and production, as defined by the UN, by optimizing logistics processes, promoting sustainable practices, and enhancing transparency in supply chains. a) Consumer Awareness: We provide clients and consumers with information and data about the environmental impact of their logistics choices, encouraging more sustainable consumption habits. b) Regulatory Compliance: We ensure that logistics operations comply with environmental regulations and standards, reducing the risk of environmental damage and promoting sustainable practices. c) Real-time Tracking and Monitoring: We offer real-time visibility into the supply chain to help identify inefficiencies and areas for improvement, thus promoting more responsible consumption and production practices.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

6

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

We are dedicated to taking action on climate change by reducing gas emissions, optimizing supply chains for sustainability, and promoting environmentally friendly practices. Below, we outline our actions through several key points. a) Efficient Route Planning: WALAR utilizes AI and data analytics to optimize delivery routes, reducing fuel consumption and emissions. This helps to minimize the carbon footprint of logistics operations. b) Consolidated Shipments: We consolidate multiple shipments into fewer trips, maximizing load efficiency and decreasing the number of vehicles on the road, which in turn reduces overall emissions.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

5

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

Our commitment to supporting life below water is demonstrated through two key actions: 1. Efficient Routing: We utilize advanced data analytics and AI to optimize shipping routes, reducing fuel consumption and emissions. 2. Compliance with Regulations: We guarantee that all shipping operations adhere to international maritime laws and environmental regulations aimed at safeguarding marine ecosystems.

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

5

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

Our commitment to supporting life on land is demonstrated through two key actions: - Minimizing Emissions: We use AI and data analytics to optimize routes and reduce fuel consumption, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and minimizing air pollution. - Sustainable Supply Chains: We promote transparency in supply chains to guarantee that products are sustainably sourced and do not contribute to deforestation, habitat destruction, or other environmental harm.

02.16.01 My project contributes to the Peace justice and strong institutions goal

6

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

Walar supports United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 16 through several actions: a) Automated Documentation: We automate the creation and management of shipping documents, reducing human intervention and the potential for corrupt practices. Digital records are harder to alter or falsify. b) Secure Transactions: We implement secure, encrypted transactions to ensure that financial and logistical operations are conducted safely and ethically, reducing the risk of corruption. c) Inclusive Supply Chains: Walar ensures that small and medium-sized enterprises and businesses in the Central African region can access global markets through efficient logistics services, promoting economic inclusivity and reducing inequalities.

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

6

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

Walar has a strong partnership orientation, and our platforms are designed to share information and value with stakeholders in the public and private sectors. Our strategy is outlined in the following points: a) Public-Private Partnerships: We work closely with governmental institutions, such as the Kribi Port, to develop and implement logistics solutions that address common challenges, such as infrastructure development and trade facilitation. b) Industry Collaboration: We partner with other local logistics providers and technology companies, such as CALT and GLOBO, to share best practices, drive innovation, and enhance the overall efficiency and sustainability of the logistics sector. c) Collaborative Research: We collaborate with academic institutions, such as UCAC ICAM Institute, to develop innovative solutions for logistics challenges. This drives continuous improvement and allows us to build a pool of local talent.

05.01 There are a large number of customers who already use a product/service very similar to the product/service we envision creating.

4

05.02 The product/service we envision creating represents an entirely new type of product/service.

4

05.03 The product/service we envision creating could be described as a new technology.

3

05.04 The product/service we envision creating is an improvement on an existing product or service.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.05 The product/service we envision creating could be described as an extension of a range of products or services.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.06 The product/service we envision creating responds to a demand or need that has not been satisfied by other products/services.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.07 The product/service we envision creating is a new version of an old product/service.

6

05.08 Justification

In Cameroon, over 70% of the workforce is engaged in the informal sector, while international logistics is controlled by global companies that sometimes fail to address our local needs specifically. We are developing a solution for our local champions by incorporating cost-effective options like SMS and WhatsApp notifications, mobile money payments, and providing SMEs with data analysis. This will enable them to expand their market reach with the launch of the African Continental Free Trade Area.

05.09 Who are your main potential competitors and what makes you stand out from them?

We have identified three main groups of competitors: - Multinational freight forwarders such as AGL, Ceva Logistics, and DHL, with a global network covering the entire world. - Medium-sized local players like AMT and WES WETT, highly regarded for their local expertise. - Informal competitors, consisting of individuals who assist their clients with customs processes. Walar distinguishes itself from these three groups through a strategic focus on two key elements: - Efficiency: Our digitalized approach enables us to accomplish more tasks with fewer resources, thereby reducing our operational costs. - Customer service: As digital natives, we are able to provide a service that better aligns with the preferences of the new generation of clients and entrepreneurs, offering options such as Mobile Payment. - Visibility: A crucial aspect of logistics services is visibility, which we provide to our clients through simplified channels such as WhatsApp, Bulk SMS, and digital platforms.

10.06 Are you initiating actions within your community to promote the role of female entrepreneurs?

Walar plays a powerful role in promoting female entrepreneurs, especially in the male-dominated logistics field. In 2024, we initiated two actions: 1. Logistics training programs: We offer courses related to logistics and digital supply chain specifically designed for female entrepreneurs and managers. This year, our program has attracted more than 56 women. 2. Industry associations: Our female teammates are members of WILA (Women in Logistics Africa), which promotes women in logistics and technology to help them leverage their resources and networks.