Compiled by Eamonn Ryan from the presentation
At the 2024 GCCA Africa Cold Chain Conference held on August 23 in Cape Town Gavin Kelly, CEO of the Road Freight Association (RFA), delivered a presentation on ‘Cold Chain Sustainability in a Changing World’. His insights highlighted the critical issues facing the cold chain sector in Africa, particularly within the context of trade and logistics. This is Part 3 of a five-part article.
Kelly’s presentation offered a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities within the cold chain logistics sector in Africa. His insights into the necessity for technical expertise, appropriate vehicle selection, and regulatory compliance served as a crucial reminder of the complexities faced by operators in this vital industry.
As the conversation around cold chain sustainability continues, Kelly’s remarks emphasised the need for industry collaboration and adaptation to thrive in an ever-changing environment. He shed light on the regulatory hurdles and border challenges that transport operators face across Africa. His insights underscored the complexities of moving perishable goods in a landscape often hampered by inefficiencies and corruption.
Kelly noted that transportation operators must navigate a labyrinth of regulations once they enter specific areas, such as mines or fishing trawlers. “For example, when you arrive at a coal mine, the requirements shift dramatically,” pointing out that compliance issues can lead to severe repercussions. He highlighted the scrutiny from regulatory authorities, which often focus on potential violations related to food safety or transport protocols.
One of the major divides in the road transport sector, according to Kelly, is between those who comply with regulations and those who don’t. He lamented a long-standing issue where non-compliant operators evade consequences, affecting the entire industry. “For the last 20 years, those who ignore compliance have faced little to no repercussions,” he said, stressing that the most heavily regulated areas, like the transport of hazardous materials, require significant adherence to safety protocols.
Kelly also highlighted the dark side of enforcement, detailing how some authorities engage in corrupt practices, such as stopping vehicles and demanding bribes. “There are operators who face threats from officials who can remove vehicle discs, forcing operators to pay fines and fees to regain access,” he explained, illustrating the systemic issues that burden transporters.
A focal point of Kelly’s presentation was the logistical nightmare at border crossings, particularly for perishable goods. He cited the Kasumbalesa border between South Africa and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), where trucks can face queues extending 50Km. “If you’re transporting fish or other perishables, waiting in line for hours can be catastrophic,” he warned.