Digital tools simplify cross-border planning

Zambia is rapidly positioning itself as a mining powerhouse as foreign investment into the country gains momentum. According to Quintin Botha, strategy partner lead at CtrlFleet, interest in the Copperbelt is at an all-time high, driven by a global surge in copper demand. “Countries like Zambia continue to attract foreign investment and the government is investing heavily in infrastructure,” he told Freight News. “We support several operators in the region with digital tools that simplify cross- border planning, ensure compliance and improve fleet visibility.” He said the need for streamlined logistics had never been more critical. “The $110-million concession at Kasumbalesa – SADC’s busiest border post – underscores just how urgent improved logistics infrastructure has become,” said Botha. “Through our platform, CtrlFleet enables transporters to better manage trips through these high-volume corridors, enhancing efficiency and visibility where it’s needed most.” Developments like the expansion at Kasumbalesa are particularly noteworthy. These upgrades were helping ease longstanding bottlenecks, but only if logistics providers were prepared to operate at a more digital, integrated level, said Botha. “Having a single platform that supports planning, tracking, compliance and coordination at scale is essential to unlock the full value of these infrastructure investments.” According to Botha, there is clear momentum behind smart corridor initiatives and upgrades at key border posts. “These developments are creating real opportunities for logistics providers that are ready to modernise their operations. Our goal is to support this shift by enabling everything – from improved driver communication to consolidated data that strengthens planning, reporting and customer service.” He said Zambia’s logistics sector was poised to benefit from increased investment in infrastructure and trade corridors. “We are extremely optimistic about the growth we’re seeing in the country and the rising demand from operators for smarter, more connected transport management systems.” The country, however, is not without its challenges. Like much of Africa, infrastructure remains a critical concern. “In Zambia, ensuring consistent and reliable supply chain capacity is an ongoing challenge, particularly given the pressure on key corridors,” said Botha. “Volumes have also come under pressure due to fluctuations in global demand for copper and shifts in mining activity. However, continued infrastructure investment could help stabilise these cycles over time.” Botha also noted increasing pressure on exporters to comply with carbon regulations, particularly those linked to European Union (EU) markets. This, he said, was driving a broader push for efficiency and transparency across the road freight sector. LV