Page 28 - LUA May June 2024 for Website

FOCUS

Challenges & Growth in
CARGO GROUND

HANDLING IN AFRICA

Africa's air cargo ground handling industry is poised for a takeoff. By
confronting its challenges, investing in modern infrastructure, and
embracing innovative solutions, it can become the engine that propels
Africa's air cargo sector to new heights, reports Nehal Gautam.

he air cargo industry in Africa airports. Charles Wyley, Executive Vice
has experienced remarkable President – Middle East, Africa and Asia at
growth, fueled by increasing trade, Menzies Aviation, highlighted, "Challenges
Teconomic development, and the range from insufficient cool chain capacity
rise of e-commerce. However, cargo to outdated warehouse management
ground handling operations across the software (WMS) systems.” Highlighting
continent face significant hurdles that must warehouse capacity as one of the key
be addressed to unlock their full potential. challenges, Paul Mwakisha, General
Despite these obstacles, African nations Manager, Triple FFF, Kenya (Kenya
are making concerted efforts to invest in Airfreight Handling) stated, “During peak
infrastructure, technology, and specialised seasons such as Valentine’s, Mother’s Day
facilities to enhance efficiency and meet and Women’s Day seasons, cold-room
the growing demand. space becomes a challenge occasioned
by high production of fresh cargo such
KEY CHALLENGES
One of the major challenges is the
inadequate infrastructure at many African

dnata ground handling at Zanzibar

26 LUA MAY - JUNE 2024