Caterpillar’s distributor is working on hastening the implementation of its digital strategy in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The strategy is meant to strengthen relationships with customers hurt by COVID-19- as envisoned by Noel Mabuma, CEO of Congo Equipment.
According to media reports, a plan to allow customers to order parts for their heavy equipment via a secure e-commerce platform and track delivery, originally planned for 2023 has been brought forward to 2021. The platform is being developed with Caterpillar, the US manufacturer of construction and mining equipment.
Heavy equipment suppliers in sub Saharan Africa such as Thyssenkrupp Industrial Solutions are accelerating their deployment of digital channels to serve their customers. The pandemic has made these tools the only reliable way to stay in touch with customers, and for the clients to monitor the performance of their gear. Congo Equipment’s e-commerce platform, which will be the first of its kind in the DRC, should be launched around the third quarter of 2021.
Local Skills
About 99% of Congo Equipment’s clients are in the mining sector and its subsidiaries. The company aims to diversify into supplying agriculture and construction businesses, says the CEO.
Some clients have delayed spending decisions as a result of COVID-19 and some of the company’s experts have been blocked outside the country, he says. There has been a gradual improvement since the DRC reopened its borders on August 15, he adds.
One long-term consequence of the pandemic for the company will be a greater focus on training and hiring locally. Some technical experts have found themselves suddenly stranded in South Africa or China.
All in all, more resources for developing local technical skills in the DRC can be a positive result of COVID-19.
