ISSN 2412-7779
Cold Link Africa Online
REGULARS
INCORPORATING COLD CHAIN
Cold Link Africa ColdLinkAfrica
VOL . 38 - NO . 6 | OCTOBER 2024
CONTENTS |
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REGULARS
3 Editor ’ s column 29 Products 30 Buyer ’ s guide 31 Word search
NEWS
4 Public Procurement Bill , tenders in the spotlight at Smart Procurement World Indaba
ASSOCIATIONS
5 GCCA issues Call to Action on food supply chain in Africa 5 2024 GCCA Africa Cold Chain Conference highlights
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BUSINESS AND TRAINING
17 The ammonia advocate : Andrew Perks ’ passion for efficient refrigeration 20 Pimp your ride
PROJECT
22 Sovereign reaffirms commitment to Cooling-as-a-Service with Energy Partners
CONTRIBUTORS |
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GCCA Africa Conference 2024 Cape Town |
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Refrigeration Practitioner registration - 85 |
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Interlinking the supply chain with blockchain technology |
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© Cold Link Africa |
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EVENTS AND EXHIBITIONS
8 Net zero cold chain management 11 FRIGAIR 2025 will feature the latest in design , technology and trends
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TECHNICAL
27 The drive for resilience in Africa ’ s food chain
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Images by Maxiflex |
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FEATURE
12 The history , evolution and future of cold storage and freezer design
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We want to showcase your projects ! Get in touch : eamonn @ interactmedia . co . za |
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Images by Babylonstoren
Building Africa ' s cold chain logistics with 5G technology
The emergence of 5G technology represents a transformative shift in global connectivity , promising to usher in an era of unprecedented digital advancements . For Africa , a region with a growing and diverse economy , the potential applications of 5G extend beyond consumer entertainment and business operations . One critical area where 5G can significantly impact is the cold chain logistics sector , which is crucial for preserving perishable goods and ensuring their safe delivery across the country .
Africa ’ s cold chain logistics sector is vital for the distribution of temperature-sensitive goods such as pharmaceuticals , fresh produce , and dairy products . The efficiency and reliability of this sector are paramount for maintaining the quality and safety of these products . However , Africa faces several challenges in managing its cold chain operations , including :
• Many regions , particularly rural areas , suffer from inadequate infrastructure that hinders efficient cold chain logistics .
• Maintaining consistent temperatures during transport and storage is challenging , often leading to spoilage and financial losses .
• Traditional systems for tracking and monitoring shipments can be inefficient and prone to errors , impacting overall reliability .
Now , 5G technology , with its high-speed connectivity and low latency , can address these challenges and revolutionise cold chain logistics in Africa . Here ’ s how :
• Enhanced real-time monitoring : 5G ' s low latency enables real-time monitoring of temperature-sensitive goods . Advanced IoT sensors connected via 5G networks can provide continuous data on temperature and humidity levels throughout the entire supply chain . This allows for immediate intervention if conditions deviate from the required parameters , reducing spoilage and ensuring product safety .
• Improved data analytics : The highspeed connectivity of 5G facilitates the rapid collection and analysis of vast amounts of data . This capability allows logistics companies to implement predictive analytics for more efficient route planning and inventory management . By analysing data trends , companies can optimise their operations to reduce waste and improve overall efficiency .
• Streamlined operations : 5G technology supports the integration of automated systems and robotics in warehouses and distribution centers . This can enhance operational efficiency by automating inventory management , packaging , and sorting processes . The result is faster processing times and reduced human error , leading to smoother logistics operations .
• Enhanced supply chain visibility : With 5G , businesses can implement
advanced tracking solutions that provide end-to-end visibility of shipments . This transparency helps in monitoring the status of goods in real time , improving coordination among supply chain partners , and ensuring that products are delivered on time and in optimal condition .
• Boosting connectivity in remote areas : 5G can extend high-speed connectivity to remote and underserved regions , which are often crucial points in the cold chain . Improved connectivity in these areas enhances the ability to manage and monitor cold chain logistics , even in less accessible locations .
• Cost efficiency : By reducing the need for manual monitoring and improving operational efficiency , 5G technology can lower costs associated with cold chain logistics . The ability to predict and address potential issues before they escalate can result in significant savings and improved profitability .
A CALL TO ACTION : EMBRACE THE 5G REVOLUTION NOW
The future of Africa ’ s cold chain logistics depends on the proactive adoption of 5G technology . It ’ s time for stakeholders — including logistics companies , technology providers , and government regulators — to unite in championing this transformative innovation . Investing in 5G infrastructure , adopting cutting-edge technologies , and fostering collaboration across sectors
EDITOR ’ S COLUMN
will be crucial in overcoming existing challenges and setting new standards in cold chain management .
Let us seize this opportunity to elevate Africa ’ s cold chain logistics to new heights of efficiency , reliability , and cost-effectiveness . By embracing 5G technology , we can not only enhance the preservation and delivery of perishable goods but also drive economic growth and ensure that Africa arrives near the forefront of technological advancement .
The future of cold chain logistics is here — let ’ s embrace 5G and transform our logistics sector for the better . Act now to be a part of this revolutionary change and drive Africa ’ s success in the digital age ! CLA
Eamonn
REFERENCES :
1 . chrome-extension :// efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj / https :// www . gsma . com / about-us / regions / sub-saharan-africa / wp-content / uploads / 2023 / 10 / 5G-in-Africa-2023 . pdf 2 . https :// www . mediatek . com / products / smartphones-2 / mediatek-dimensity-6020
COLD LINK AFRICA • October 2024 www . coldlinkafrica . co . za 3