Amid the operational challenges of the country’s transport sector, freight forwarding solutions company Tswalanang Logistics highlights the necessity of creating educational opportunities for and upskilling women to realise positive long-term socialeconomic outcomes.

While there are sizable socioeconomic inequalities in various aspects of the economy, the transport sector is responding positively to the gender disparities, with programmes such as the Women Inspiring Women (to Lead) in Transport programme. This programme is aimed at upskilling women to become meaningful participants in the sector, says Tswalanang Logistics CEO Oratile Sekele.

She highlights the importance of women acquiring the necessary education and skills to bolster their prospects in the sector.

“Aspirant women need to be educated and have good communication skills. When you liaise with your service providers, be confident on what you are addressing. In this industry, one also needs to have a plan for solving problems that may arise and doing so in a way that does not jeopardise the image of your company or the interests of your customer.”

While financial skills are crucial, Sekele notes that female entrepreneurs should also be able to adequately assess market opportunities and have a sufficient command of the products and services they offer.

She adds that women should be more receptive to collaborative opportunities with other women, and should nurture their ability to harness relationships, as this is key to business longevity.

Navigating Challenges

Sekele notes that the operational challenges at the Port of Durban, in KwaZulu-Natal, have caused a “major backlog” and increased congestion, resulting in delays in container collections and onward deliveries.

“Trucks have to wait in long queues throughout the day and this results in high fuel costs, driver fatigue and a disruption in the domestic and global supply chain. As Tswalanang, we have employed more staff to focus on after-hour shifts for booking slots, and encouraged our drivers to rest and to work with assistance drivers, thereby encouraging driver safety and responsible behaviour.”

Gender representation in leadership roles in the sector is another challenge, she laments.

The company notes that leadership roles – particularly in pick-and-pack, distribution warehouse and management – and representation – among pilots, ship captains and road freight drivers – are still male-dominated.

To take the initiative to compete in this sector, Sekele encourages women to invest in proper equipment, as this creates efficiency and gives one greater ability to control the quality, price, and distribution of goods.

Reflecting on the significance of women in Tswalanang, she says they have positively impacted on the business and highlights that their soft skills– such as teamwork and problem-solving – have often provided the company with an edge over competitors.