Online Reporter
Sikhulekelani Moyo,Zimpapers Business Hub
Deputy Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Development, Joshua Sacco, has emphasized the vital role of shipping and forwarding agents in driving infrastructure transformation.
He noted that their contributions to supply chain efficiency, trade facilitation, and logistics optimization are essential complements to national investments in infrastructure and services.
The Deputy Minister made these sentiments during the Shipping and Forwarding Agents’ Association of Zimbabwe (SFAAZ) 19th Annual Conference happening in Bulawayo.
Deputy Minister Sacco said the association is a key stakeholder and the nation values the input and presence of the association.
“This support is very much appreciated. We therefore call upon you all to join us as we forge a seamless, multimodal connectivity-from highways to skyways and rails- in order to propel Zimbabwe into becoming a regional transport hub,” said Deputy Minister Sacco.
The Deputy Minister said the Government is spearheading different projects meant to improve trade, which include infrastructure development in both road, rail, aviation and sea.
In his remarks, SFAAZ chairperson Mr Assan Mtembo said industry is at a crossroads, with global supply chains evolving—becoming faster, digital, and more integrated.
He said Zimbabwe can no longer afford to operate in silos.
“The movement from fragmented systems to a seamless, corridor approach development and multimodal logistics network that efficiently connects our roads, railways, airports, border posts, dry ports, and inland terminals should be accelerated,” said Mr Mtembo.
“We are pleased to note several positive developments spearheaded by the Second Republic, under the able Leadership of President Mnangagwa that laid the groundwork for a seamless transport network like the Harare–Beitbridge Road rehabilitation, which laid a solid foundation to accelerate trade, through efficient transport networks.”
Mr Mtembo said the theme for this year’s conference: “From Highways to Skyways: Accelerating Zimbabwe’s Trade with Seamless Transport and Logistics”, speaks to the promotion of intra and extra regional trade.
He said transport and logistics have been cited time and time again as the most significant barrier to trade.
