Surface Transport
Surface transport is an important link in WFP's supply chain. Half of the food distributed by WFP is sourced directly within the country or region where it is needed. The remaining half, procured internationally, is shipped by sea and discharged in 78 cargo ports around the world. Once discharged, the food makes its way through a system of road, rail and river transport. WFP has approximately 5,000 vehicles from local transporters on the road at any given time.
If local markets lack the specific types or numbers of vehicles required, WFP establishes its own fleet. If existing warehouses are insufficient or unavailable, WFP erects new ones. If roads become impassable due to seasonal flooding, WFP uses forward planning to pre-position enough food to last until the waters subside.
An average of one million tonnes of food is constantly in transit, passing through a network of more than 3,000 centrally located warehouses, extended delivery points and final destinations.
Surface transport is a complicated challenge requiring rigorous planning. Professional management systems and committed staff help WFP meet that challenge.
Guidelines
WFP News
- 29 July 2010Hunger Solutions On Shores Of Lake Victoria
- 29 July 2010WFP Executive Director sees revolution in fighting hunger by Africa helping itself
- 29 July 2010Arroyo exec defends surplus rice imports
- 29 July 2010WFP Scales up Safety Nets in Support of the Government’s Agenda for Change
- 29 July 2010Politicians not focusing on food security situation: WFP
