The President’s announcement of the new Cabinet on 1 July 2024 raises concerns about political motivations, rather than a focused effort to address the country’s pressing issues. Despite the rhetoric about “delivery,” there are indications that the selections may be driven more by political calculations than a genuine desire to tackle the critical problems facing the nation, such as issues with crime, transport, energy, and employment.
There are many new names in the Cabinet – and much has already been said in various publications about the suitability of some appointments.
The Road Freight Association (RFA) has frequent engagement with a number of Ministers and their departments (and related State-Owned Entities (SoEs)). However, the prime focus lies with Transport (DoT), Employment and Labour (DOEL), Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC) and Small Business Development (DSDB).
In this regard, the Association is sorry to see changes to the whole ministerial team (Minister and Deputy Minister) at the Department of Transport. The Association had a very engaging and positive working relationship with Ministers Chikunga and Mangcu – with good progress being made on a number of core issues related to compliance. Will this now revert back to “go” whilst the new ministerial team first finds its feet (as they seem to have absolutely no experience to transport – and as far as the Association can gauge – no exposure to the road freight supply chain or industry)?
Any solid business will note that continuity is a good thing in ensuring objectives and direction are maintained. The RFA is concerned that there will be a whole set of “new brooms sweeping clean” as individuals’ “marks” are stamped on departments and policy.
We are at a crisis in terms of various aspects of transport – both freight and persons. Our links to the global market are at such a stress point that solid, enlightened and positive leadership along the paths already mapped out is crucial. There is no time to “re-evaluate and research” possible alternative solutions. The causes have been identified – and the National Logistics Crisis Committee (NLCC) amongst other structures has identified what needs to be done in terms of turning the ailing Transnet monopoly and infrastructure around into a vibrant player in the logistics supply chain.
The Presidential Crisis Committee focussed on a number of crucial elements – crime, energy and logistics being part of these – and the Association wishes the newly appointed ministers in these portfolios (where applicable), the very best.
The Ministers will need to turn around departmental thinking – the thousands of public servants who need to change the way they serve the country where required, the acceptance in the change of direction and possibly new focusses.
Ministers Creecy and Hlengwa (at DoT): we look forward to engaging with you shortly. Welcome to a challenging, but vibrant and critically important portfolio. We look forward to hosting you at various events and engagements – as well as the RFA Convention 2025 on 24 May 2025. Keep that day (and a couple around it) booked in your diaries!
Issued by
Name: CVLC Communication
Contact: Catherine Larkin APR CMILT
Cell phone: 083 300 0331
Contact: Catherine Larkin
Email: ca*******@cv**.za
Website: www.rfa.co.za
About The Road Freight Association
The Road Freight Association was established in 1975 to support its Members who are, in the main, road freight operators. It is a lobbying and negotiating body which influences the state of the industry, rates, upkeep of the road infrastructure, road safety, freight security, driver interests, cross-border transport, education, health, the fuel price, law enforcement, labour relations and many other issues related to road freight transport.
Member companies include small and medium-sized trucking companies, including many family-owned businesses, owner operators, as well as most of the largest trucking companies in South Africa. Members come from all sectors of the trucking industry.
Private and public operators are Members of the RFA. Membership also includes a significant number of affiliates and associates – those companies providing goods and services to the trucking industry.
Team RFA (made up of support staff and experts) is committed to serving you. The team brings with it a high degree of professional experience, knowledge and dedication – which greatly contributes to the effectiveness, relevance and standing of the RFA.
As the voice of the trucking industry in South Africa, the RFA is your voice. It is important that you avail yourself of that opportunity to be heard.
