Page 46 - Logistics News - Issue 01 - 2024.indd

A F R I C A N L O GI S T I CS

Navigating the complex

waters of African logistics

This article has been adapted from a recent discussion on
Michelin’s ‘What’s Treading’ podcast featuring Stephen Masters,
Over Border and Project Manager at MSC South Africa
The Power

Africa has long been considered a land of untapped potential, teeming with natural
resources, diverse cultures and emerging economies. At the forefront of unlocking this
to Predict

potential is the continent’s logistics industry.
ea freight is the dominant method of importing Several avenues of growth and opportunity were
and exporting across the continent. This identified. Africa holds a unique position with a need for
Sreinforces the influence that the global transport solutions tailored to the African context. We need to sit
economy has on regions like South Africa. The ripple with our partners and say this is what works in Africa and
effect of global incidents such as the blockage of the we need to tailor that accordingly.
Suez underscores the interconnectedness of the logistics
world. In the realm of international partnerships and trade
relations, Africa is far from a passive player. Instead, it’s a
South Africa’s geolocation offers a unique advantage. continent that has a wealth of insights and assets to offer.

Globally, from a geographical point of view, we’re the We can Africanise them (the partnerships) to fit in our
halfway point between the East and the West. This environment, our economy and our logistics networks.
midpoint position has the potential to turn the country
into a significant logistics hub. Even so, businesses must There exists a need for innovative thinking. The world
remain cognisant of the challenges such as the rapidly is rapidly changing and sticking to outdated models and
increasing competitive landscape and the significant strategies will only hinder growth. It requires thinking What if next-generation
amount of work South Africa must still do to strengthen outside the box... it’s driven by passion and vision.
its logistics sector. Telematics and AI could predict
Focusing on local
A significant challenge is the dated infrastructure, When it comes to the future of the industry, all this could if your freight will be on time?
especially concerning rail and road transportation. We suggest a move towards more localised solutions. These Or time for an alternative route.
suffer from an aging infrastructure here in southern better reflect the unique logistics landscape across the
Africa. This decay affects not just transportation, but also continent while still leaving opportunities for international With Crystal by Ctrack, you can.
the broader sectors. partnerships. Moreover, it means acknowledging the past
and present challenges, learning from them and forging a Transport and Logistics Management, beyond tracking and reporting.
The ongoing electricity crisis exemplifies this, noting path forward with determination and adaptability.
its crippling effects over the past few years. It’s been
something we’ve had to endure as many businesses have In summary, Africa stands on the cusp of a logistics
been compelled to find alternative power sources. revolution. While challenges abound, so do opportunities.
Through conversations with industry experts, a clearer
Opportunities to be had picture of the future emerges – one that’s hopeful, dynamic Scan QR code for more
Yet, amidst these challenges, optimism flourishes. and, above all, promising for the African continent. • information or contact us at LKD A 41906 V5
0860 333 444
ctrack.com
44 I S S UE 01 – 2024 www .l o g ist i csn e w s .c o .z a