Moving freight and people safely and efficiently across Southern Africa are prerequisites for social upliftment and economic growth in the region. While South Africa’s road freight industry may deploy world-class trucks, it suffers an acute skills deficit spanning a broad spectrum of transport disciplines. The Southern African Transport Conference (SATC) will address skills development and other challenges facing the transport industry in general at its forthcoming event in July 2024.
According to Dr. Mathetha Mokonyama, SATC chairman: “South Africa’s transport industry plays a critical role in the overall development of the country. However, the industry faces many challenges, including ageing infrastructure, skills shortages and slow adaptation to changing technologies.
“Transport infrastructure and services are critical components of the economy and society. They are integral for economic growth and upward social mobility. Well-maintained transport infrastructure and responsive transport services ensure that businesses can operate efficiently and that people have access to essential services such as healthcare and education.”
Collaborating for sustainable transport improvements
The theme of this year’s SATC to be held from 8 to 11 July at the CSIR in Pretoria, Gauteng is ‘Upskilling and Reskilling the Transport Industry for Current and Future Challenges’. The conference is endorsed by the International Road Federation with the Minister of Transport as patron.
“This year’s SATC will provide a platform for stakeholders from both the public and private sectors to come together, share ideas and identify opportunities for collaboration,” says Dr. Mokonyama.
“Partnership between public and private sectors is crucial for the success of the transport industry. The partnership is necessary for innovation, targeted investment, and appropriate regulatory frameworks. By working together, the private and public sectors can create a transport industry that sustainably meets the needs of southern Africa’s growing economy.
“The conference will feature peer-reviewed technical papers from different parts of the world, plenary sessions, panel discussions and technical presentations covering a wide range of topics related to transport policy, strategy and technological applications across all modes of transport. Attendees will have the opportunity to exchange ideas, share best practices and network with leading professionals in the field,” he adds.
The event will include keynote speakers, plenary sessions, panel discussions, and technical presentations.
The keynote speakers include prominent figures in the transport industry, including Maphefo Anno-Frempong (CEO of Transport Education Training Authority), Victoria Sheehan (executive director at Transportation Research Board), Abimbola Akinajo (managing director of Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority), and Thenjiwe Mthintso (high commissioner of the Republic of South Africa to Namibia).
“I look forward to engaging discussions and fruitful collaborations that will help shape the future of the transport industry in our region,” concludes Dr. Mokonyama.
