The time for South Africa to build more resilient logistics networks is now

As South Africa steps into 2026 with a brighter than ever outlook, drumbeats of economic improvement are reverberating across the landscape.

Eskom’s impressive milestone of 231 consecutive days without load shedding in 2025 has brought a renewed sense of optimism.

However, experts caution that while energy stability has created a more favourable environment for growth, it is just one piece of the puzzle.

The success of the economy will hinge on the resilience of its logistics networks—a critical aspect that South Africa must rethink if it aspires to thrive both locally and on the global stage.

Nelson Teixeira, Managing Director of Operations for Sub-Saharan Africa at FedEx, believes that 2026 presents a unique opportunity for the country to innovate its transportation infrastructure.

“Energy stability gives the economy breathing room, but logistics resilience is what determines whether businesses can actually trade and grow,” he states emphatically. The focus must now shift to diversifying transport options to withstand potential disruptions.

Historically, South Africa's supply chains have shown a heavy reliance on particular ports and corridors, creating vulnerable points that can halt progress when unforeseen challenges arise.

Teixeira highlights the imperative for a multifaceted transport network that seamlessly integrates air, road, and multimodal options: “A diversified transport network gives businesses options,” he explains. “If one route slows down, you need alternatives that allow goods to keep moving rather than sitting idle in the system.”

Air freight emerges as a particularly vital component, especially for time-sensitive shipments and heavy cargo that cannot afford delays. During periods of port congestion or road disruptions, air freight can serve as a reliable fallback, ensuring that critical projects remain on schedule. By weaving such logistics capabilities into the overarching supply chain strategy, companies can enhance their flexibility and reliability—two essential ingredients for navigating today’s complex operational landscapes.

Beyond infrastructure, technology represents another pivotal pillar in establishing resilient supply chains. Advanced tracking systems, near real-time data visibility, and predictive routing tools empower businesses to anticipate rather than merely respond to disruptions. Teixeira articulates this notion succinctly: “Resilience today is as much about information as it is about infrastructure.” Equipped with transparent logistical data, firms can make swifter, more informed decisions, mitigating delays and costs while bolstering reliability.

Collaboration among government and industry is integral in addressing existing infrastructure weaknesses and enhancing logistics capabilities.

“While public investment in infrastructure and development is critical, private-sector expertise, capital, and operational experience can accelerate progress,” says Teixeira. He advocates for strategic partnerships that drive innovation in customs processing, digital integration, and capacity planning—efforts that can complement government initiatives.

Strategically, South Africa is bleached with potential to stand as a gateway for broader African trade.

Teixeira underscores the necessity for public and private cooperation: “If South Africa wants to remain competitive as a regional logistics hub, public and private players need to work together to modernise the system to make trade flow smoother and more efficient.”

Moreover, resilient logistics is not only beneficial for large corporations; small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and emerging sectors stand to gain enormously. Enhanced logistical reliability equips these businesses with the confidence to access new markets and fulfil delivery commitments, fostering competition on a global scale.

“Resilient logistics levels the playing field,” Teixeira remarks, underscoring the empowerment of SMEs through reliable supply chains.

As South Africa embraces the promise of energy stability, the year 2026 holds the potential for transformational change in logistics. The message is clear: it is time to build supply chains that are not only robust but also future-fit, ensuring that the nation is equipped to navigate any challenges that may arise.

BUSINESS REPORT