The logistics wheels that keep on turning
The supply chain landscape is transforming rapidly, driven by technological advancements, shifting market demands and the growing need for more resilient and sustainable competitive solutions.
Supply chain and operations services provider Unitrans continues to redefine regional logistics through technology investments and trend adaptation.Industry analysts predict key trends for 2025, including AI and machine learning for demand prediction, routing optimisation, and inventory management. The Internet of Things (IoT) will enhance supply chain visibility, while Robotic Process Automation (RPA) will streamline operations, improving efficiency and reducing costs. Last-mile delivery solutions will expand despite logistics sector constraints, and mobile money integration will remain crucial in Sub-Saharan Africa, though corporate adoption will depend on financial feasibility.
Infrastructure development, particularly in cross-border transport, is expected to grow through public-private partnerships. Localised manufacturing and distribution hubs will reduce reliance on long-distance supply chains, supporting regional economic growth. Sustainability concerns will drive demand for greener logistics solutions, while simplified digital models will allow businesses to optimise operations without real-world disruptions.
Adopting innovation and digital transformation
"The future of logistics in Sub-Saharan Africa will be defined by innovation, agility, and a customer-centric approach," says Edwin Hewitt, Unitrans CEO. "At Unitrans, we are committed to driving innovation, with technology and industry-specific expertise forming the backbone of our operations."
In response to industry shifts, Unitrans has made strategic investments in digital transformation. Its Enterprise Architecture technology stack evolves to meet African market challenges. "The growth of business lies in the seamless integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) with operational excellence," says Hewitt. "By embracing innovation and leveraging these disciplines, Unitrans delivers the necessary solutions and remains ahead of the curve."
In agriculture, Unitrans employs drones, autonomous machinery, and Variable Rate Technology (VRT) to boost efficiency and sustainability. Drones provide real-time crop data for better irrigation and pest control decisions. Self-driving tractors and harvesters optimise operations, cutting labour costs and soil compaction. VRT ensures precise fertiliser and herbicide application, minimising waste. "By integrating these advanced technologies, Unitrans not only boosts productivity but also significantly reduces costs in the sugarcane growing process," Hewitt notes.
A customer-centric approach
Customers are central to Unitrans’ innovation efforts. "We continuously engage and collaborate with our customers to understand their evolving requirements and develop tailored solutions," says Hewitt. RPA implementation has streamlined internal operations, reducing manual workloads and enabling teams to focus on customer-centric innovation.
An agile implementation strategy allows Unitrans to rapidly test, learn, and iterate on new solutions, ensuring adaptability. "Our commitment is to remain a trusted partner for our customers, shaping the future of logistics through tailored solutions that address the unique challenges and opportunities of Sub-Saharan Africa," concludes Hewitt.