‘SA must assume leadership role in addressing the challenges’

The relatively underdeveloped nature of the continent when compared to the rest of the world is what provides the very potential for its growth and development, says Glenn Lawson of South Africanbased specialist forwarding and clearing software company Core Freight Systems. “And for those of us situated in Africa this presents a unique opportunity to contribute to and participate in this scenario.” While the 2010 World Cup has given foreigners positive exposure to the environment, this is not restricted to sport and tourism, says Lawson. “The regular reports of interest by offshore banking institutions and retailing giant Wal-Mart in South African companies provide evidence that they too see the potential beyond the supply of minerals resources traditionally delivered.” It’s an opportunity that comes with challenges, says Lawson, but in his view South Africa has a leadership role to play in addressing these. “Firstly, the country provides a physical springboard into the lower part of the continent and the ongoing development of the infrastructure and associated facilities is vital to the process in order to provide efficient, cost-effective access to the African markets, whether the movement is inwards or outwards. “Secondly, we should not only practise good governance internally but actively encourage this throughout the continent. This will involve addressing political and social issues which manifest themselves in all the wellknown symptoms of crime, violence, corruption, poverty, ill-health and the like. Perhaps we cannot resolve all these problems immediately but we should display genuine intent and a good example to others.” Core Freight sees logistics as essential to the development of South Africa and therefore the continent. “And we believe we are integral to providing one of the cogs required in an efficient supply chain – working with our clients and associated stakeholders to progress this development.”