INCORPORATING COLD CHAIN
ASSOCIATIONS a dedicated contractor . This model is designed to provide clients with a hasslefree experience , allowing them to focus on their core operations while experts handle the technical and operational aspects of cooling .
To illustrate the effectiveness of this model , Jacobs shares a real-world example involving a client facing a severe challenge when their facility was hit by flooding , disrupting their cooling system . Jacobs details how Energy Partners swiftly responded to the crisis enabling minimal downtime and operational disruption . The case study highlights the key advantages of CaaS . Jacobs emphasises that this approach not only ensures high efficiency in cooling operations but also significantly reduces lifecycle costs for clients . Importantly , it eliminates the need for clients to make substantial capital investments upfront , thus alleviating financial pressure .
In a session titled ‘ Government of National Unity and South Africa ' s Prospects for Reform ’, Chris Hattingh , executive director at the Centre for Risk Analysis ( CRA ), provides an in-depth analysis of the current political landscape in South Africa and its implications for economic reform and governance .
He set the stage with a focus on recent election outcomes and the country ' s economic underperformance . He notes the significant political shift from 2019 to 2024 , highlighting the formation of two major political camps in South Africa . On one side , the progressive caucus includes the EFF and MK , while the pragmatic centre comprises the Democratic Alliance ( DA ), ANC , and Inkatha Freedom Party ( IFP ).
He shares insights from polling data conducted by the CRA , revealing a moderate to conservative leaning among South Africans and a stronger preference for job creation over social grants . This data underscores a growing public desire for tangible economic improvements rather than merely increased social support . The discussion also highlighted a decline in public trust in the government , contrasted with increased trust in media , business , and non-governmental organisations ( NGOs ). Hattingh points out the importance of economic growth and job creation as central to rebuilding trust and attracting investment . He argued that focusing on economic fundamentals , such as growth and job creation , is more likely to yield positive results than prioritising land reform and property rights .
In a detailed presentation on the ‘ Impact of Load Shedding on the Cold Chain ’, Evans Chinembiri , an agricultural economist at Tutwa Consulting Group , explores the significant challenges and potential solutions for building resilience within the cold chain sector amid ongoing power disruptions .
Chinembiri opens his discussion by emphasising the critical importance of understanding how load shedding — planned electricity outages — affects the cold chain . His approach to this issue involved a thorough review of existing literature , as well as conducting surveys and interviews to gather firsthand insights into the problem .
The findings he shared are eye-opening . Chinembiri highlights that load shedding has a direct impact on food inflation due to the increased costs and disruptions caused by power outages . The operational challenges faced by cold chain operators during these periods include difficulties in maintaining consistent temperature controls , which are crucial for preserving perishable goods .
Despite these challenges , Chinembiri points out some positive outcomes that have emerged from dealing with load shedding . One significant result is the increased focus on alternative energy solutions , such as solar power and batteries . These solutions , although costly , have prompted operators to optimise their processes and seek more efficient ways to manage energy use .
To address the challenges posed by load shedding and enhance the resilience of the cold chain , Chinembiri outlines six key recommendations . First , he suggests implementing meaningful incentives for renewable energy initiatives , which would encourage the adoption of sustainable energy solutions . He also proposes a one-year suspension on input duties for batteries and solar components to reduce the financial burden on cold chain operators investing in these technologies .
Chinembiri further recommends pursuing advanced technology solutions for real-time tracking and monitoring of cold chain conditions . Improved trade facilitation through better coordination between logistics providers , customs authorities , and cold chain operators was also emphasised as a way to streamline operations and mitigate disruptions .
Another crucial recommendation is the use of the cold chain sector as an energy store through demand-side management . By effectively managing energy consumption and storage , cold chain operators can better handle power outages and reduce downtime due to equipment failures .
Lastly , Chinembiri stresses the importance of coordination and partnerships in implementing these recommendations . Effective collaboration among stakeholders — including government bodies , industry players , and technology providers — is essential for building a more resilient cold chain infrastructure .
Many of the above presentations will be profiled in much more detail in subsequent issues . CLA
Wentworth also introduces the Guided Trade Initiative ( GTI ), launched in 2022 . Initially involving seven countries , the GTI has now expanded to 32 African nations , including South Africa .
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