Follow Us on Google
By Steve Agbota
The International Vice President, Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT), Ibrahim Jibril, has called for bold, forward-thinking strategies to confront Africa’s transport challenges, strategies that prioritise both innovation and environmental responsibility.
Speaking at the opening of the 2025 Africa Forum and Conference at the Kigali Convention Centre, Rwanda, themed: themed “Sustainable Logistics and Green Transport Development for Africa”, Jibril, who also chairs the Africa Forum, described the forum as “groundbreaking,”.
He underscored the urgent need for African nations to address the twin demands of rapid urbanisation and economic growth while reducing their carbon footprint.
He urged stakeholders to move beyond outdated, carbon-intensive practices, warning against romanticising regressive alternatives under the guise of sustainability.
“While camels are energy-efficient and come with built-in tanks, their cargo capacity is limited,” he quipped. “Let’s focus on realistic, innovative, and sustainable solutions.”
He emphasised that Africa’s booming cities and expanding intra-continental trade require more efficient and resilient logistics systems, systems that must also align with climate goals.
“Sustainable logistics and green transport are essential pillars for achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 9 on Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, and SDG 13 on Climate Action,” he stated.
Highlighting Africa’s immense renewable energy potential, from solar and wind to hydropower, Jibril called for a coordinated push to harness these resources as part of a broader green energy transition.
He also stressed the need for inclusive development that ensures all communities benefit from transport reforms.
“Let’s ensure that rural and underserved communities are not left behind,” he urged. “Sustainability must also mean surviving our infrastructure.”
The two-day forum brought together leaders and stakeholders from the logistics, transport, energy, and environmental sectors, with panels focusing on electric mobility, smart logistics systems, renewable energy integration, and policy innovations.
Jibril urged delegates to embrace a long-term perspective.
“The future of transport in Africa shouldn’t just be about getting from Point A to Point B,” he said. “It should be about ensuring Point B still exists in 100 years.”
