Hundreds of supply chain professionals from across Africa and around the world will convene in Cape Town this month to learn, share knowledge and network at the annual SAPICS Conference. Now in its 48th year, this event is more important than ever in a supply chain environment that is being impacted by shifting trade policies, rising costs, rapid technology advances and growing risk, says supply chain industry body SAPICS.

Artificial intelligence, robotics, circular supply chains, ethical sourcing, public sector procurement, intra-African trade and healthcare supply networks are among the topics on the agenda at the conference, which takes place from 19 to 22 July 2026 at the Century City Conference Centre. This year's event is also significant because SAPICS is celebrating its 60th anniversary. This milestone is reflected in the 2026 SAPICS Conference theme "Legacy to Leadership: 60 Years of Connection, Collaboration and Transformation".

The conference programme brings together an exceptional line-up of local and international speakers, industry experts, thought leaders and practitioners who will share practical insights into the opportunities and challenges shaping modern supply chains.

Opening keynote by Transnet CEO

Among the highlights this year are the opening keynote presentations by Michelle Phillips, group CEO of Transnet SOC Ltd, and Demitta Gyang, director of Customs Administration at the AfCFTA secretariat.

Eskom Holdings is in the spotlight in a not to be missed session by public sector and SOE specialist Simphiwe Mbonambi. In a presentation titled "Beyond Compliance: Leadership Solutions for Transforming Public Sector Procurement", she will explore how leadership can drive meaningful procurement reform and deliver greater value in the public sector.

Travelling from the Netherlands to share his insights at SAPICS 2026, Armand van Oostrom of The Hague University of Applied Sciences will discuss circular supply chains and explore how organisations can create more sustainable and regenerative supply chain models in an increasingly resource-constrained world.

ABF Sugar’s Melicia Buddan and Neshwin Buddan from Shyfyt Up will explore the rise of intelligent agents and the practical application of AI across large-scale corporate and entrepreneurial supply chains.

Improving healthcare supply chains in Africa

Healthcare supply chain innovation will also feature strongly at SAPICS 2026. Representatives from the United Kingdom's Supply Chain Funders' Forum, Megan Toon, Kelly Hamblin and Wapapha Nthomiwa, will discuss the integration of health supply networks and how verification and traceability can be advanced in Africa.

Technology's impact on logistics and warehousing will be examined by respected South African industry expert Martin Bailey. His presentation on "The Rise of Robotics in the Warehousing Industry" will showcase how automation is transforming operations, productivity and competitiveness.

Renowned industry expert, seasoned coach and global thought leader Lebogang Letsoalo will deliver the closing keynote address at the 2026 SAPICS Conference. Over more than 26 years in transport, logistics and supply chain management, she has earned multiple industry accolades, including recognition among the Top 100 Global Women in Supply Chain and a Lifetime Achievers Award in Supply Chain, Transport and Logistics.

Beyond the speaker programme, the SAPICS Conference features a dynamic exhibition showcasing the latest technology and supply chain solutions, hands-on practical workshops, robust panel discussions and exclusive site visits that provide delegates with a behind-the-scenes look at world-class supply chain and logistics operations.

The 2026 SAPICS Conference promises to be one of the most significant gatherings in the not-for-profit organisation’s history, SAPICS states. “As SAPICS celebrates six decades of advancing the supply chain profession, this year’s landmark event will not only reflect on the past but help shape the future of supply chain excellence.”

To find out more, to register to attend, or to exhibit at the 2026 SAPICS Conference, visit https://conference.sapics.org/ or contact the SAPICS 2026 Secretariat by calling + 27 31 303 9852 or emailing kimera@confco.co.za.