Growing participation in high-level leadership

Women are taking on an increasingly prominent role in South Africa’s freight and logistics sector, with several now holding positions that carry considerable influence over national policy, infrastructure, industry reform and skills development. Representation remains uneven, particularly in technical and operational fields such as trucking, terminal operations, engineering and rail. At leadership level, however, women are making decisions that will have a lasting impact on the performance and direction of the country’s logistics system. Barbara Creecy Minister of Transport Creecy’s portfolio spans South Africa’s road, rail, maritime and aviation systems, giving her political oversight of a sector undergoing extensive reform. A major focus of her tenure has been the restructuring of freight rail. This includes opening the national network to private train operating companies and creating greater scope for private-sector investment and participation. Michelle Phillips Group Chief Executive, Transnet Phillips took over at Transnet during one of the most difficult periods in the state-owned company’s history. Falling rail volumes, congested ports, ageing equipment, infrastructure constraints and a heavy debt burden had severely affected its performance. With more than two decades of experience at Transnet, Phillips is leading its operational recovery while overseeing significant changes to the way the organisation operates. Dr Juanita Maree Chief Executive Officer, Southern African Association of Freight Forwarders Maree is a prominent industry voice on freight forwarding, customs and trade facilitation issues. As chief executive of SAAFF, she regularly engages government, Transnet, the South African Revenue Service and other authorities on the challenges affecting cargo owners and logistics companies. Her focus has included port congestion, border delays, customs modernisation, digitalisation and improved visibility across supply chains. Mesela Nhlapo Chief Executive Officer, African Rail Industry Association Nhlapo has been closely involved in the debate around the future of South Africa’s railways and the role of private operators in rebuilding the freight network. Through ARIA, she represents companies involved in rail manufacturing, engineering and related services. She has consistently advocated for reforms that will unlock investment, increase rail capacity and create more opportunities for local industry. Maphefo Anno-Frempong Chief Executive Officer, Transport Education Training Authority Anno-Frempong oversees skills development in a sector whose requirements are changing rapidly. Transport and logistics companies need more technical and digital expertise as automation, artificial intelligence and data-led decision-making become part of everyday operations. She is responsible for programmes aimed at preparing workers for these changes while addressing existing shortages across the industry. LV