Safety and security are critical components of logistics, transport, and supply chain management, yet recent statistics reveal a concerning reality. According to the Transported Asset Protection Association (TAPA), South Africa has witnessed over 40,000 crimes impacting supply chains in the past year alone, based on data from the South African Police Service (SAPS). These incidents encompass a spectrum of offences, ranging from high-profile truck hijackings and cash-in-transit robberies to common robbery, burglaries, and stock theft. In 2023, TAPA recorded a staggering 41,120 new incidents in Africa, with 99% of these occurring in South Africa.

Moreover, South Africa ranks fourth globally in cargo theft rates, as per the Cargo Crime Monitor. Items of significant value such as phones, electronic goods, and food and drink consistently feature in the top five list of stolen goods.

In response to these alarming trends, the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport: South Africa (CILTSA) is hosting a half-day seminar on navigating safety and security risks in the logistics, transport, and supply chain industries. Scheduled for 22 May in Sandton, Johannesburg, this event aims to equip professionals with the requisite knowledge and tools to identify, assess, and mitigate safety and security risks within their operations.

Empowering industry professionals: seminar highlights

The CILTSA Safety and Security seminar is tailored for professionals working across all facets of logistics, transport and supply chain management. Participants can expect an insightful programme covering a range of pressing topics, including:

• Public safety and criminal justice in South Africa 2024
• The state of safety and security in logistics, transport, and supply chain in South Africa
• Leveraging intelligence for enhanced transport safety and security
• Securing our trade routes: private initiative in the public interest
• Protecting the lifeline: addressing theft, vandalism, and pilferage of critical infrastructure
• Transport, facility, and security requirements: latest regulations and developments
• Risk management and telematics
• Cybersecurity: what you need to know
• Unlocking the power of changed driver behaviour

President of CILTSA, Elvin Harris, underscores the seminar's significance, stating, "Safety and security are paramount for any organisation involved in logistics, transport, and supply chains. This seminar equips attendees with the insights they need to safeguard their people, cargo, and operations. It is vital that we navigate the challenges and emerge stronger, safer, and more resilient."