Gauteng, freight industry associations partner to improve efficiencies in the sector 

19th July 2021 By: Yvonne Silaule - Contributor

The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport and freight industry associations have established a partnership to improve efficiencies in the logistics and freight sector.

The partnership is championed by Gauteng Public Transport and Road Infrastructure MEC Jacob Mamabolo.

Mamabolo says the initiative is part of efforts to further enhance collaboration, improve efficiencies and continue the vital flow of goods and freight throughout South Africa and the continent. 

He refers to the partnership as the Gauteng Freight Forum and says it will serve to provide a common platform for information-sharing between the private sector and government.

Organisations that have joined the forum include the Consumer Goods Council of South Africa, the Road Freight Association, the South African Association of Freight Forwarders, the South African Express Parcel Association and the Transport Forum.

"The forum has committed to ensuring that the movement of essential goods and services continues, with active cooperation between the private sector and various arms of government," the MEC says.

He adds that the forum will also assist with trouble-shooting and rapid intervention in various areas of concern, as and when they arise.

Gauteng remains a key destination for freight – with more than 60% of freight originating, passing or leaving through the province.

“We want to re-position Gauteng as the inland hub for freight and logistics. We need to realise its competitive advantage,” Mamabolo notes.