As South Africa continues to grapple with inefficiencies across its transport and logistics infrastructure, smart technology is emerging as a powerful lever for progress. According to Michelle De Freitas, Country Sales Manager at Webfleet South Africa, telematics has a critical role to play in alleviating congestion, improving coordination, and enabling more responsive and sustainable logistics operations.

Recent regulatory developments – including the introduction of targeted block exemptions under the Competition Act – are encouraging greater collaboration between players in infrastructure and logistics. These measures aim to address systemic constraints by allowing companies to share operational data, coordinate maintenance, and jointly plan services – all within a tightly regulated, pro-competition framework.

But regulatory reform alone won’t solve the problem. “The real opportunity lies in using advanced fleet management solutions to unlock efficiencies, even as the landscape evolves,” says De Freitas. “Modern telematics systems like Webfleet provide real-time, high-quality data that can be used to improve route optimisation, maintenance scheduling, and asset utilisation – all while ensuring data privacy and compliance.”

Technology that drives better decision-making

Unlike basic tracking tools, today’s telematics platforms are dynamic and intelligent. These systems enable predictive maintenance through live vehicle diagnostics, optimise routing based on historical and real-time traffic data, and integrate seamlessly with emergency response systems – allowing transport operators to respond faster to incidents like road closures, adverse weather, or civil unrest.

“In times of disruption, fleet managers need both agility and foresight,” explains De Freitas. “At Webfleet, we’ve seen how incorporating artificial intelligence (AI), including generative AI, into fleet solutions helps teams turn complex data into actionable insights and long-term strategies.”

Collaboration with control

The success of any collaborative initiative in transport and logistics depends on trust, transparency, and robust data governance. Advanced telematics tools support secure data sharing between stakeholders – from port authorities to logistics providers – enabling better coordination without risking competitive integrity.

“Operators can choose what data to share, when, and with whom,” says De Freitas. “Privacy controls and user permissions are built into the system, ensuring that strategic insights can be shared responsibly while protecting proprietary information.”

Telematics in action

Globally, over 50,000 businesses rely on Webfleet to enhance fleet efficiency, support drivers, improve safety, and work more sustainably. In South Africa, these intelligent telematics solutions are helping logistics companies stay competitive in a challenging environment by turning data into a strategic asset.

“Smart telematics is no longer a nice-to-have. It’s a business-critical tool that helps transport operators overcome today’s challenges and shape tomorrow’s solutions – responsibly, sustainably, and competitively,” De Freitas concludes.