Durban - Thousands of transport professionals from across Africa have gathered at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre Complex on 28, 29 September for the Transport Evolution Africa Forum and Expo.
The aim of the expo was to move Africa forward, improving transport connectivity for economic growth and competitiveness.
In its 10th year, the Transport Evolution Africa Forum has continued to stay abreast of the three main transport sectors it focuses on, namely: ports, rail, and road.
The forum has, over recent years, discussed how the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement offers opportunities to accelerate Africa’s productive transformation and sustainable recovery from Covid-19.
Le-Ann Hare, Portfolio Director for Transport and Mining for DMG events, said the event is the largest and only event in Africa that combines ports, rail, and road authorities.
“It’s really about bringing together over 3500 people to South Africa to discuss the future of the transport network within Africa and inter-trade. We have delegates from ports from Angola, DRC, Namibia, South Africa, Mozambique, Kenya, and others.
“We hope that people walk away with good contacts and knowing how to integrate the transport system and how can work together to realise the African Trade Agreement goals. We also have a main transport conference along with the expo, workshops, and a CEO forum,” said Hare.
Amongst the technology and solution providers was Liebherr-Africa Pty Ltd. At their exhibit, the company showcased their state-of-the-art crane simulator, which allowed attendees the opportunity to learn how to operate a crane – ship to shore.
Lukas Sturn, General Manager for Liebherr Ports Equipment Division responsible for Sub-Saharan Africa, said the simulator had changed the game in the industry.
“The simulator has been a solution to training operators. We step in and take crane operators and train them on our simulators, and this is also a safer way of training and more cost-effective than using the actual equipment on site, which could get damaged and cost a company a lot.
It is more difficult than learning on the crane itself,” said Sturn.
Darren Jankelow, Liebherr Sales Manager, said being part of the expo has always been very exciting and profitable.
“It’s so great to be a part of a show like this and invest in the show, which has a spin off effect that goes back into the economy. There are a lot of people who are new in the industry and need assistance. It’s good to be able to sit with them and broaden their knowledge. It benefits them massively. Being in a country where unemployment is incredibly high, young people need this knowledge, and we are supporting them,” said Jankelow.
SUNDAY TRIBUNE