The Road Freight Association (RFA) CEO Gavin Kelly says the new Transport Ministerial team appears to have no prior experience in transportation.
Kelly stated that the association is worried that the appointments are politically driven. He is concerned that they are unable to assess any risk to the road freight and supply chain industry.
“There are indications that the selections may be driven more by political calculations. This instead of a genuine desire to tackle the critical problems facing the nation. These include… issues with crime, transport, energy, and employment.
“We are at a crisis in terms of various aspects of transport, both freight and persons,” said Kelly.
Established a good relationship with former minister
According to Kelly, the association had a good relationship with former transport minister Sindisiwe Chikunga.
“The association had a very engaging and positive working relationship with Ministers Chikunga and Mangcu. Good progress [was] being made on a number of core issues related to compliance.
“In this regard, the association is sorry to see changes to the whole ministerial team.”
Kelly stated that the ministers will have to adjust the way departmental thinking is approached. As would the thousands of public employees who must adapt to the need for a shift in direction. And maybe new areas of focus when serving the nation.
“There is no time to ‘re-evaluate and research’ possible alternative solutions. The causes have been identified. And the National Logistics Crisis Committee (NLCC) amongst other structures has identified what needs to be done. This in terms of turning the ailing Transnet monopoly and infrastructure around into a vibrant player in the logistics supply chain.
A solid, enlightened team is crucial
“Our links to the global market are at such a stress point. A solid, enlightened and positive leadership along the paths already mapped out is crucial.”
He sent their best wishes for deputy minister Mkhuleko Hlengwa and minister Barbara Creecy.
“The Presidential Crisis Committee focused on a number of crucial elements. [These are] crime, energy and logistics. And the association wishes the newly appointed ministers the very best. We look forward to engaging with you shortly. Welcome to a challenging, but vibrant and critically important portfolio.”
