Kuehne Climate Centre and Smart Freight Centre have launched a premier Green Freight Programme in the East African region to help the logistics sector contribute to reducing the global carbon footprint. The Green Freight Support Programme was officially launched on August 15th during the 5th edition of the Annual Global Logistics Convention, held in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, whose theme was Africa’s Supply Chain and Logistics Industry in the Age of Sustainability.
Speaking at the launch, FEAFFA President Mr Philippe Ndikumana applauded Smart Freight Centre and Kuehne Climate Centre for bringing this initiative to East Africa. “FEAFFA is committed to partnering with stakeholders to empower industry players in the region with the knowledge and expertise needed to reduce carbon emissions from logistics operations,” he said.
According to the Kuehne Climate Centre, the programme is a collaborative and inclusive effort involving various industry players to curb the unprecedented rise in global greenhouse gas emissions originating from logistics sector operations. These emissions significantly contribute to climate change, which is being witnessed worldwide.
Several stakeholders who spoke during the forum agreed that it is high time for logistics sector players to support efforts to address the climate change agenda. Many players in this industry seem unaware of the role they can play in tackling climate change by reducing carbon emissions. Therefore, there is widespread belief that the Green Freight Programme will initiate a series of interventions to help the industry support legitimate trade that is mindful of its environmental impact.
The launch was presided over by Adv. OKANDJU OKONGE Flory, Executive Secretary of the Central Corridor Transit Transport Facilitation Agency (CCTTFA). Adv. Okandju assured stakeholders that the industry was prepared to take concrete steps towards reducing carbon emissions. “The Central Corridor is eager to engage further with all the relevant stakeholders to elevate this initiative to the next level,” he added.
Other stakeholders present were the Ministry of Transport of the United Republic of Tanzania, Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA), TradeMark Africa (TMA), GIZ, Viaservice Limited, FEAFFA, Kenya International Freight & Warehousing Association (KIFWA), Tanzania Freight Forwarders Association (TAFFA), NMB Bank Tanzania, Tanzania Shippers Council (TSC), Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA), Maritime Organization for Eastern, Southern, and Northern Africa (MOESNA), Air Tanzania Company Limited (ATCL), and others.
GLC 2024 provided a critical platform for transport and logistics stakeholders to assess global progress in addressing the effects of climate change, evaluate Africa’s advancements in this area, and set future goals for reducing the environmental impact of logistics activities. The convention also offered an opportunity to share experiences with global counterparts and engage policymakers on necessary interventions for the African continent.
Most speakers pointed out that the logistics industry is increasingly recognized as a significant contributor to climate change, accounting for approximately 25% of global greenhouse gas emissions. With logistics emissions expected to rise by 40% in the coming years, especially in Africa, there is a pressing need to rethink current practices. GLC 2024 offered a valuable opportunity to learn about the impact of logistics on climate change and explore actions that can be taken at both individual and sectoral levels.
Smart Freight Centre and Kuehne Climate Centre have pledged continued support for all players interested in pursuing the programme. They highlighted examples of ongoing initiatives in different parts of the world, such as the Netherlands, where significant progress has already been made towards achieving the 2050 goal of 0% carbon emissions.
GLC is an annual event organized by the Federation of East African Freight Forwarders Associations (FEAFFA) and hosted by its member national associations. This year, the conference was hosted by the Tanzania Freight Forwarders Association (TAFFA). GLC 2024 was presided over by the Minister of Transport of the United Republic of Tanzania, Prof. Makame Mbarawa. Tanzania Ports Authority was the main sponsor, and TradeMark Africa was the main partner.
The article was published by Andrew Onionga and can be reached at oniongaam@gmail.com Tel: +254733780240
