By Eamonn Ryan from the report
The cold chain sector is a vital component of Africa’s economy, enabling the transportation and storage of perishable goods and temperature-sensitive products, including pharmaceuticals, food and vaccines. This is Part 2 of a six-part series.

In response to these challenges, the report calls for immediate actions to strengthen the sector’s resilience. Among the key recommendations are:
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Extend renewable energy incentives and investment
Action: Governments should provide tax credits for cold chain businesses investing in renewable energy solutions such as solar power. A dedicated funding mechanism for energy-efficient technologies and storage solutions should be established to reduce reliance on unreliable coal-based electricity.
Goal: Transitioning to renewable energy sources will not only ensure more reliable power but also reduce the carbon footprint of cold chain operations, aligning with environmental and financial goals.
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Tax relief for solar components
Action: To encourage the adoption of renewable energy systems, governments should suspend import duties and VAT on solar panels, batteries and other energy storage components for at least one year.
Goal: This measure would reduce the cost of renewable energy infrastructure, making it more accessible for cold chain operators, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises.
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Intelligent technology and real-time monitoring
Action: The cold chain sector should adopt intelligent technologies that enable real-time monitoring and data sharing, helping businesses better manage temperature control during power outages.
Goal: These technologies can mitigate spoilage risks and improve operational efficiency, enabling better response to power disruptions.
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Optimise trade facilitation
Action: Governments should optimise trade processes to reduce wait times at border posts, which can exacerbate disruptions during power outages.
Goal: Streamlining customs procedures will reduce delays in the transport of temperature-sensitive goods, enhancing the resilience of the cold chain.
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Energy storage solutions and demand-side management
Action: The cold chain sector should be used as an energy storage medium through demand-side management strategies, where businesses are incentivised to store energy during off-peak hours.
Goal: This approach would reduce the pressure on the grid during peak times and allow cold chain businesses to have a reliable backup power source during load shedding.
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Investment in cold chain technician training
Action: Governments and industry stakeholders should invest in the training and development of cold chain technicians, focusing on not only repairs and maintenance but also on innovative technologies like digital temperature management.
Goal: A well-trained workforce is essential to the long-term success of the cold chain sector, as it will ensure that businesses can quickly adapt to technological advancements and overcome challenges related to power disruptions.