Southern Africa’s logistics sector is undergoing a rapid digital transformation, with transport operators moving beyond simply recognising the need for technology to actively testing and implementing digital solutions.

Some are already switching between providers as they seek the most effective tools to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.

“We are at the early stage of a technology boom within the transport sector, with the emergence of multiple solution providers locally, along with global suppliers making inroads,” said Renko Bergh, co-founder of CtrlFleet.

“The need for true digital impact and creating competitive advantages through technology is now.”

Bergh warns that sustaining the momentum is key.

“The challenge is for transport operators to maintain the utilisation of solutions," he said.

"They need to avoid the potential pitfall of leapfrogging their own expectations and keep on measuring improvements.

”Logistics remains a critical enabler of economic growth, especially as South Africa eyes a 3% growth target.

"However, the sector continues to grapple with high transport costs, ineffective port operations and failing infrastructure.

"Cost-effective transport solutions are more important than ever, and digital innovation is seen as a vital step forward.

"The National Logistics Crisis Committee has echoed the need for technology-driven transformation, but the real shift will come from operators embedding technology into their operations, rather than treating it as an add-on."

• Read the full article in the Freight Features edition on "Logistics."