By Eamonn Ryan
The Global Cold Chain Foundation (GCCF) recently hosted an in-depth webinar highlighting their ongoing international projects aimed at strengthening cold chain infrastructure in Central America as well as Central and West Africa.
The session, presented by Amanda Brondy, GCCF vice-president of international projects, and Shanne Brennan, senior vice-president of strategy, provided stakeholders with updates on US government-funded programmes, regional initiatives, and GCCA’s hands-on approach to developing sustainable cold chain operations in emerging markets.
Central America remains a critical focus for GCCF, particularly in El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras, under the Atraxi project. Despite challenges caused by the US government shutdown of late 2025, these projects have received approval to continue, ensuring that essential cold chain knowledge and expertise continue to be shared. The programme has delivered virtual cold chain training for operators handling perishable products, including personnel at border control points, ensuring that temperature-sensitive goods are properly managed during transit. Training covers vital topics such as post-harvest handling, sustainable packaging practices, energy efficiency and facility design. Dr Eduardo Molina, a GCCA council of scientific advisors member, has contributed significantly to training sessions, focusing on packaging and sustainable handling, while Dr Elhadi Yahia has provided post-harvest training for local operators in El Salvador.
In West Africa, GCCF’s emerging markets programme spans Ghana, Ivory Coast and Senegal, with a focus on enhancing the capabilities of local cold chain operators. The project includes virtual workshops, on-site consultations and mentorship programmes designed to strengthen local expertise. Brondy recently traveled to Senegal, conducting 15 company visits to evaluate opportunities for cold room construction, equipment upgrades and operational cost reduction. These consultations provided one-on-one guidance to companies seeking to expand their cold storage capacity or improve operational efficiency. By reviewing business plans, equipment specifications, and infrastructure layouts, the GCCA team helped businesses make informed decisions on investments in cold chain facilities.
The programme also emphasises the importance of collaboration between local stakeholders and international experts. Brondy noted that the goal is not only to provide technical guidance but to ensure long-term sustainability by building local capacity. “Supporting cold chain development in these regions ensures reliable access to perishable foods and strengthens export capabilities,” she said. The mentorship and training programmes have been particularly well-received, with stakeholders expressing strong interest in ongoing engagement and technical support.
Beyond immediate project work, GCCF’s efforts aim to create a framework for continuous growth and knowledge sharing. The organisation provides guidance on energy-efficient design, operational best practices and industry standards, helping emerging markets adopt cold chain solutions aligned with global standards. By fostering strong connections between local operators and international experts, GCCF is laying the groundwork for resilient cold chain infrastructure that supports food security, reduces waste and improves market access for perishable products.
As GCCF continues its work in Central and West Africa, the focus remains on scalable solutions, mentorship and sustainable development. With successful training sessions, technical guidance and collaborative consultations, GCCF is making tangible contributions to strengthening the global cold chain network and ensuring that perishable products can move efficiently from producers to consumers.