South Africa’s logistics sector faces significant challenges, including rising crime rates, unpredictable weather conditions, and persistent operational inefficiencies. According to Durand Naidoo, CEO of Linsen Nambi Marine Surveying and chairman of ICS South Africa, effectively addressing these risks requires technology-driven solutions, proactive strategies, and enhanced collaboration across the industry. “Truck hijackings remain a persistent issue. During the 2023-2024 financial year, 480 truck hijackings were recorded, ref lecting a slight decline from previous years,” he said.Gauteng is still the epicentre, followed by Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal. Organised crime syndicates continue to target trucks carrying high-value cargo, such as electronics and fuel, creating significant financial losses for operators. Despite increased security efforts, logistical operations remain vulnerable due to route exposure, delays, and insider threats.Weather-related risks have also become more pronounced. The South African Weather Service (Saws) reports an increase in severe weather events, including heavy rainfall that has caused f lash f loods and road closures. This trend is expected to continue, especially across the summer rainfall regions. “Severe weather disrupts cargo operations, damages goods and increases accident risks, emphasising the need for real-time forecasting and adaptive operations,” says Naidoo. “Additionally, operational bottlenecks at Transnet’s Durban Container Terminal exacerbate logistical challenges. The truck booking system, introduced to manage congestion, has contributed to delays, with drivers waiting in queues for over 24 hours. These prolonged waits increase driver fatigue, a significant safety hazard on South Africa’s roads. During these delays, the absence of basic facilities for drivers further complicates operational risks.”Despite these challenges, says Naidoo, there are ways to mitigate risk, from implementing real-time monitoring tools and telematics on trucks to tracking driver behaviour and fatigue. Collaborating with law enforcement and security agencies enables better monitoring of high-risk routes, avoiding criminal activity. Geofencing technologies further enhance security by restricting trucks from vulnerable areas.In response to rising weather risks, logistics operators must work closely with Saws to monitor forecasts and adjust operations accordingly. Companies can reroute trucks to avoid f looded roads and protect cargo during adverse weather conditions. Early warnings have become essential in mitigating disruptions caused by unpredictable storms.Naidoo says using predictive analytics and data-driven solutions has transformed the logistics landscape, providing real-time insights into vehicle movements, driver status and weather forecasts. “Public-private partnerships between logistics operators and law enforcement agencies are vital in reducing risks such as hijackings. Additionally, climate-resilient planning is essential to logistics operations, ensuring businesses are prepared to handle severe weather disruptions effectively.”According to Naidoo, the logistics sector must adopt a multifaceted approach to mitigate crime risks, severe weather and operational delays. “By staying ahead of emerging risks and building adaptive strategies, logistics operators can ensure operational continuity and turn challenges into opportunities.” LV
