Road transport remains the dominant mode in Africa, ensuring over 80% of domestic trade. However, it is also at greatest risk: deterioration of infrastructure, insecure corridors, customs problems, rising fuel costs and geopolitical tensions. Here's how to build a more resilient supply chain.

Situation of African road transport

The African road network suffers from deep disparities. While some corridors (Dakar-Bamako, Mombasa-Kampala) have been improved, others remain problematic with degraded roads and multiple checkpoints, generating some of the highest logistics costs in the world.

Mapping and controlling road hazards

The first step towards resilience is to accurately map the risks on each corridor: road condition, areas of insecurity, history of border delays, periods of climate risk. GPS tracking tools and fleet management platforms provide reliable data in real time.

Diversifying roads and modes

The most resilient companies maintain several routing options. The road-rail combination, where it exists (Ethiopia, Kenya, South Africa) offers a credible alternative for large volumes. Multimodal planning is becoming a major competitive advantage.

Optimize fleet management

Modern fleet management systems integrate GPS, driving alerts, fuel consumption monitoring and predictive maintenance. These tools reduce unexpected breakdowns, optimize tours and secure sensitive cargo.

Simplify customs procedures

A major cost factor is slow bordering. Initiatives such as the e-Single Window and simplified transit agreements are progressing. Approved economic operators benefit from accelerated circuits and must become the norm.

Building a resilient supply chain in Africa involves proactive risk management, strategic partnerships with local carriers and progressive adoption of visibility and optimization technologies.