A significant milestone was reached in the South African logistics sector with the recent launch of the Multimodal Inland Port Association (Mipa).
Mipa was launched during the latest Transport Forum where a panel of industry experts updated more than 250 delegates last week on the latest trends affecting the sector.
The new association aims to act as the unified voice for inland ports across the country, focusing on promoting, supporting, and advocating for the increased movement of cargo from road to rail.
"Transporting more cargo by rail has become imperative, considering the growing cost of logistics in South Africa. It is no longer just a nice-to-have," said Mipa chairman Warwick Lord.
Mipa aims to reform the rail industry through private investment, foster trade activities that meet social objectives, and facilitate the crucial transfer of goods from road to rail.
Formed by leading entities in the transportation sector, including the Cato Ridge Inland Port, Tambo Springs Development Company, Portfutures, Autoforce, Mac Group, Cape Town Inland Port, the Cape Winelands Airport, the Musina Intermodal Terminal, RailRunner South Africa, and RailRunner Services, the association has committed to collaborating on best practices, particularly through private sector participation with government and state-owned enterprises.
"We aim to create one voice for inland ports, driving workable multimodal solutions that deliver efficiency, cost reduction, and much-needed resilience to the South African supply chain. By doing so, we can mitigate the impact of external shocks and ensure stability in the logistics sector," Lord said.
Mipa’s strategy to drive more cargo to rail includes using innovative multi-nodal technology and improving collaboration with other freight hubs and stakeholders, to optimise supply chain links.
"Inland ports increase accessibility through long-distance transport corridors, leading to lower distribution costs and improved capacity by consolidating freight volumes," Lord said.
"These multimodal terminals can handle large amounts of cargo continuously, allowing seaports to extend their cargo base, which is crucial given the increasing size of vessels."
Inland ports also provide dedicated logistics developments, proximity to rail and highways, ample truck parking, and less traffic congestion.
Lord said the association was dedicated to facilitating free trade and promoting sustainable practices. The association will help members to comply with the sustainable development goals and the SADC Vision 2050.
South African Association of Freight Forwarders CEO Juanita Maree said the logistics network was at a turning point, with more alignment across the country than ever before.
“By working together, we can achieve significant advancements. It is crucial to continuously foster dialogue, share insights, and raise awareness to build a sustainable supply chain for the future.”
Lord said Mipa aimed to expand its membership across the sector.
"The business community plays a vital role in developing and facilitating trade within the logistics and supply chain environment. We will lobby warehousing, transport, and consulting businesses through these channels to join Mipa,” Lord said.
“We will also seek to include state-owned enterprises as they are significant players nationally and globally, while fostering a close working environment with the government," he said.
