The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport’s (CILT) branches in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia are proud to announce a diverse line-up of presenters who will speak at its upcoming Regional Logistics and Transport Conference, scheduled for 19 to 21 November 2024, at the Nasrec Expo Centre in Johannesburg, South Africa.

This landmark event, held in conjunction with the Futuroad Expo - the most comprehensive business trade fair for the truck, bus, and commercial vehicle body sectors - promises to be a pivotal gathering for industry professionals across Sub-Saharan Africa.

Under the theme "Unlocking Sub-Saharan Africa's Potential: Transforming Transport and Logistics for a Sustainable Future”, the three-day conference aims to address critical challenges and opportunities within the region's transport and logistics sector. Broad themes of the conference include Infrastructure; Harmonisation (including legal and regulatory frameworks); Safety and Security; Skills Development; Education and Training; Technology; Digitalisation and Artificial Intelligence; and, Innovation.

"We have an exceptional roster of confirmed speakers from several countries for our Regional Logistics and Transport Conference, " says CILT President Elvin Harris. “From industry veterans to innovative thought leaders, our line-up represents the cutting edge of logistics and transport expertise. These speakers will provide invaluable insights into bridging skills gaps, leveraging technology and driving sustainable solutions in our sector. This conference is not merely about discussing challenges; it is about catalysing real change through the shared wisdom of our local and international experts."

Each speaker will bring unique insights to the table. They include, among others, Godwin Punungwe, Senior Transport and Trade Facilitation Consultant for the Tripartite Region and the African continent; Gerhard van Zyl, Chief Operations Director at the Professional Risk and Asset Management; Lyn E.K. Chiweshe, Co-Founder of Parwaringira Enterprises; Raymond Koffie, Senior Warrant Officer Class II: Ghana Armed Forces Training and Doctrine Command; Prof Mum Habib, Professor at the School of Business and Entrepreneurship at Independent University, Bangladesh; Dr. Tapiwa Mujakachi, President of CILT Zimbabwe; and, Mike Daniel, Managing Director of RailRunner South Africa.

Punungwe brings a wealth of experience in public sector transport management. His presentation will focus on the critical role of government policies in shaping the future of transport and logistics across Sub-Saharan Africa.

Dr Mujakachi is scheduled to address the critical topic: “The Skills Gap in Sub-Saharan Africa's Transport and Logistics: A Roadmap for a Sustainable Future."

Van Zyl will deliver two compelling presentations. The first focusses on "Bridging the Skills Gap in Sub-Saharan Africa's Transport and Logistics”, while the second addresses the pressing question, "Can businesses survive outside the technology and digitalisation race, or is it a matter of adapt or die?”

Ms. Chiweshe will discuss "Unlocking the Potential of Women and Youth in Logistics and Transport Towards Sustainable Outcomes and the Realisation of Sub-Saharan Africa's Potential."

Koffie will share his expertise on "Enhancing Skill Development and Education in Transport and Logistics." Professor Habib will address the topic of "Entrepreneurship and Innovation to Drive Sustainable Transport and Logistics Solutions in Sub-Saharan Africa", while Daniel will present a case study on entrepreneurial innovation for sustainable transport in Sub-Saharan Africa.

"The Regional Logistics and Transport Conference represents a crucial step towards realising our shared vision for a more integrated and efficient transport and logistics sector across Sub-Saharan Africa," explains Dr. Mujakachi. "By bringing together experts from various countries, we're fostering a collaborative environment that will drive innovation, address common challenges, and unlock the immense potential of our region. This conference is not just about sharing knowledge; it's about forging partnerships and strategies that will shape the future of logistics and transport in Africa."

The CILT conference offers a unique opportunity for networking, learning, and collaboration. Attendees will have the chance to visit both the Futuroad Expo and Automechanika, South Africa’s premier international trade fair for the automotive service industry. Expo attendees will gain insights into the latest developments across the truck, bus, commercial vehicle, and automotive sectors as a whole.