Supply chain resilience, artificial intelligence and public sector procurement reform will dominate discussions when hundreds of supply chain professionals from across Africa and around the world gather in Cape Town later this month for the 48th annual SAPICS Conference.
Taking place from 19-22 July at the Century City Conference Centre, the conference comes at a time when supply chains are navigating shifting trade policies, rising costs, rapid technological change and increasing operational risk. The event also marks SAPICS’ 60th anniversary under the theme, Legacy to Leadership: 60 Years of Connection, Collaboration and Transformation.
Among the headline sessions is the opening keynote by Michelle Phillips, group CEO of Transnet SOC Ltd, alongside Demitta Gyang, director of Customs Administration at the AfCFTA secretariat.
From AI to public sector procurement
Artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, circular supply chains, ethical sourcing, intra-African trade, healthcare supply networks and public sector procurement are among the key topics on this year’s agenda.
Public sector procurement specialist Simphiwe Mbonambi will examine how leadership can drive procurement reform and improve value creation in state institutions, while Armand van Oostrom of The Hague University of Applied Sciences will explore the growing importance of circular supply chains in building more sustainable and regenerative supply networks.
Artificial intelligence also features prominently, with ABF Sugar’s Melicia Buddan and Neshwin Buddan from Shyfyt Up discussing the practical application of intelligent AI agents across both corporate and entrepreneurial supply chains.
Healthcare, robotics and resilient supply chains
Healthcare supply chain resilience will receive dedicated attention, with Megan Toon, Kelly Hamblin and Wapapha Nthomiwa from the United Kingdom’s Supply Chain Funders’ Forum examining stronger integration of health supply networks and improved verification and traceability across Africa.
Warehouse automation will also be in focus, with South African logistics specialist Martin Bailey presenting on the growing role of robotics in improving operational efficiency and competitiveness.
The conference concludes with a keynote by Lebogang Letsoalo, whose more than 26 years in transport, logistics and supply chain management have earned her international recognition, including being named among the Top 100 Global Women in Supply Chain.
Alongside the conference programme, delegates will have access to an exhibition of supply chain technologies and services, practical workshops, panel discussions and site visits showcasing leading logistics operations.
Editor’s comment: As supply chains become increasingly technology-driven and interconnected, this year’s SAPICS Conference reflects the industry’s growing focus on resilience, digital transformation and smarter procurement – issues that are becoming central to the competitiveness of African logistics and freight networks.
Visit https://conference.sapics.org/ for more info.
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