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Home » RFA’s Gavin Kelly addresses cold chain sustainability challenges at GCCA Conference Part 1

RFA’s Gavin Kelly addresses cold chain sustainability challenges at GCCA Conference Part 1

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 1 of a five-part article.

Gavin Kelly, CEO of the Road Freight Association (RFA)
Gavin Kelly, CEO of the Road Freight Association (RFA). Freepik

In his introduction, Kelly acknowledged the previous session’s focus on the African Free Trade Agreement, emphasising the need to delve deeper into the cold chain industry and its specific challenges. “I’m here to discuss the realities of road freight and the cross-border issues impacting trade and the cold chain sector in Africa,” he stated.

The RFA, which represents a diverse range of members from small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to larger transport companies, is the largest trade association in the road freight sector. Kelly noted that 88% of the association’s members are SMEs, underscoring the importance of supporting smaller operators in a landscape often dominated by larger firms. “We are not just the ‘big seven’ of logistics; there are countless other operators running fleets from one to several thousand trucks,” he explained.

Kelly stressed the importance of collaboration among members to effectively lobby for necessary changes within the transport sector. “If you’re not part of an organisation that voices the challenges and suggestions for solutions, it becomes difficult to enact change,” he remarked, reinforcing the need for collective action in advocating for industry needs.

He then moved on to the operating realities of freight transport, emphasising that securing contracts is essential for operators. The nature of these contracts can vary widely — from short-term arrangements lasting mere hours to longer contracts that provide a more stable income stream. However, the current market is fraught with challenges, including the impact of online purchasing and the rise of brokers in the industry. “The emergence of platforms similar to Uber has transformed how we approach logistics,” Kelly noted.

As he continued his presentation, Kelly hinted at broader economic changes resulting from the current government of national unity in South Africa, suggesting that new policies could emerge that will affect the transport landscape. “We are on the brink of potentially significant shifts that could reshape our industry,” he stated, urging attendees to stay vigilant and engaged.

Continued in Part 2…