Shumani Industrial Equipment has announced the launch of the Bheka rough terrain forklift. This strategic addition makes Shumani the second company in SA to offer this specialised equipment. Managing Director Victor Nemukula explains the motivation behind the new addition to the Bheka range: “We have had a lot of customers enquiring about a rough terrain forklift. They were not just looking for a rough terrain forklift, but an equipment brand they could identify with.”
The Bheka rough terrain forklift is built for demanding environments and rugged applications. “A rough terrain forklift is either a four-wheel drive or two-wheel drive. It has large, heavy-duty tyres with high ground clearance. It also has a robust frame and chassis,” explains Nemukula. These features make it ideally suited to sectors such as construction, farming, and forestry, environments where standard forklifts cannot operate effectively. “The Bheka rough terrain forklift is designed for rough applications like construction and farms that have uneven outdoor surfaces.”
The Bheka forklift is not only designed for performance, but also for durability and ease of use. It incorporates a reliable transmission proven in the market for over 30 years, representing mature and trusted technology. A lowering damper and wide-view mast reduce vibration and enhance operator comfort during use.
Full LED lights and a large LCD screen improve visibility and provide real-time operational data, while water-proof electrical connectors ensure the machine is ready for demanding outdoor conditions. The forklift uses a confluence of dual lifting pumps alongside load-sensing power steering, delivering enhanced hydraulic performance with optimised energy conservation.
Braking safety and reliability are reinforced through an enhanced wear-resistant brake drum and a well-engineered braking system that reduces shock and performs reliably, even in wet conditions. Stronger 14PR rear tyres ensure a longer service life, and the buckled front floorboard design allows for quick disassembly and easy maintenance access. These features collectively make the Bheka rough terrain forklift a dependable and serviceable solution for tough operating environments.
With only one other provider currently operating in the rough terrain forklift space, Shumani aims to differentiate itself through its extensive national support infrastructure and commitment to operational excellence.
The company’s wide-reaching support includes service centres across South Africa, from Polokwane to Cape Town, with regional offices in Johannesburg, Durban, Port Elizabeth and Cape Town. “We also have technicians going as far as the Northern Cape, Free State and Limpopo and can service any customer anywhere in the country. We carry OEM parts to support our customers,” says Nemukula.
The introduction of the Bheka rough terrain forklift aligns with Shumani’s broader strategy to offer holistic, integrated solutions. “We are able to offer our customers end-to-end solutions and products under one roof,” says Nemukula. As part of its long-term vision, Shumani continues to invest in research and development. “We are constantly looking at new product development in order to give our customers options.”