Industry organisation the Road Freight Association (RFA) held its yearly Convention from May 23 to 25, in KwaZulu-Natal, a forum for industry discussion and strategic planning and to commemorate the Association’s 50 years of service to its members and the broader South African economy.

Since its inception in 1975 as the Public Hauliers Association, evolving into the RFA in 1989, the organisation has been involved in shaping policy, bolstering industry standards and providing support to its members.

Through half a century, the RFA has played a role in advocacy, from the regulatory development of the National Road Traffic Act in the early 1990s to the introduction of formal road transport and logistics courses in 1995, the organisation points out.

More recently, the RFA says it has championed digital transformation, sustainability and the modernisation of industry practices.

In the chairperson’s address, delivered by RFA CEO Gavin Kelly, the association’s history and its forward-looking agenda were outlined.

Kelly highlighted current challenges facing the industry, including pervasive delays at borders and ports, escalating crime rates and mounting pressures on operating margins.

“Looking ahead, the RFA’s advocacy will focus on crucial adjustments to economic regulations, diversification of fuel sources, addressing critical supply chain infrastructure collapses and navigating new initiatives regarding the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment Charter and employment equity quotas. The integration of automation and alternative energy sources also remains a key focus,” he said.

The RFA achieved a 12% membership increase in 2023.

The association continues to serve as the primary voice for road freight operators in South Africa, actively promoting professionalism and fostering strategic partnerships with government entities, it states.

“We urge our members to actively engage in shaping the industry’s future through ongoing communication and participation in RFA initiatives, reinforcing the RFA’s dedication to sustainable practices and collaborative engagement,” Kelly emphasised.

The convention’s agenda featured presentations from experts.

These included Absa CIO Ricardo Smith presenting on “Driving Growth: the Economic Roadmap for a Resilient Freight Industry”.

Smith’s presentation highlighted significant trends and challenges, noting the enduring importance of the US and China as trade partners, South Africa’s current inflation at 2.7% year-on-year, and a revised GDP growth forecast of 1.4% for this year.

He also shed light on Transnet’s operational struggles and debt, alongside the considerable R1-trillion allocated for infrastructure investments over the next three years, predominantly within transport and logistics.

The strategic shift towards rail freight was a prominent theme.

Cape Africa Group director Ian Bird discussed “Open Access to Rail Opportunities and Challenges for the Road Freight Sector”.

He detailed the National Logistics Crisis Committee’s workstreams and the proposed Intermodal Logistics Master Plan, aimed at integrating road, rail, air and sea transport to enhance efficiency and reduce emissions.

“The road freight industry stands at a pivotal moment, demanding reinvention as open access to rail becomes a reality. This isn't just a shift; it's an opportunity for road freight to transform itself, explore new avenues like concessioning and leverage customer relationships and other strategic partnerships,” Bird averred.

Other discussions included the importance of addressing climate change through rail, technology, and electric vehicles; the need to finance this transition; and the potential of integrated road-rail solutions.