The newly launched Truckers Association of South Africa (TASA) is hosting a two-day conference to assist previously disadvantaged cargo carriers to capitalise on the country’s R12 billion freight and logistics market.

The conference, which is taking place from 12 – 13 October, will bring together members, various speakers, industry role players and public and private sector stakeholders according to TASA Convener, Mary Phadi.

“Due to capital-intensity, inability to attain contracts and inability to access industry information, many operators in South Africa struggle to enter the lucrative transportation and logistics industry. TASA is ready to implement radical transformation to all sectors that are linked to transportation,” Phadi says.

Phadi adds that the association further aims to focus on the plight and exploitation of emerging cargo carriers by big companies and to be the voice of emerging truck operators in the country, across all sectors.

Empowering young people

“The association also plans to empower young people to take part in key businesses within the transport sector and commits to grooming and mentoring those who are legally certified.”

Phadi says that TASA will continue to embark on provincial roadshows in order to engage all transport industry players.

TASA represents owner drivers, small transport providers to hardware and furniture stores as well as emerging cargo carriers for fuel, steel, gas, coal, sugar, and chemicals.