As Africa hurtles towards a projected doubling of its population by 2050, a colossal challenge and a tantalising opportunity are converging on its transport sector. A new report, “African Transport Industry Insights 2025,” compiled by Moore Africa Advisory, paints a picture of a market poised for explosive growth, predicting a compounded annual expansion of 6-8% until 2040. However, this potential hinges on an eye-watering annual infrastructure investment of around $150 billion – a figure that dwarfs current spending.
The stakes are undeniably high. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), with its promise of a 50% surge in intra-African trade, will place unprecedented demands on already strained transport networks. In South Africa alone, a staggering R940 billion is earmarked for infrastructure spending between 2025 and 2028, with state-owned entities contributing a hefty R375 billion and hopes pinned on local and international financiers to inject a further R100 billion.
Africa’s transport industry, a sprawling web of roads, railways, ports, and air corridors, is the lifeblood of trade, economic progress, and regional cohesion. But it stands at a critical juncture, facing a seismic shift driven by institutional reforms, the relentless march of digitisation, the imperative of tackling climate change, and the growing influence of ESG investment considerations.
While the continent brims with growth potential, unlocking it will require a Herculean effort. Regulatory overhauls, the forging of robust public-private partnerships, strict adherence to environmental standards, the embrace of cutting-edge technologies, and the dismantling of systemic industry bottlenecks are all crucial pieces of the puzzle.
Against this backdrop, the 12th Transport Evolution Africa Forum & Expo 2025, co-locating with Big 5 Construct South Africa and the South Africa Infrastructure & Water Expo in Johannesburg this June, emerges as a pivotal gathering. This three-day event promises to be a melting pot of local, regional, and international stakeholders, both public and private, eager to dissect the latest innovations, exchange invaluable insights, and forge the partnerships that will shape the continent’s transport future. From the intricacies of digitisation to the urgent need for climate-resilient infrastructure, this is where the blueprints for Africa’s transport revolution will be drawn.
Josh Low, Vice President South Africa for dmg events, highlights the recent “game-changing updates” from the State of the Nation Address, including the unlocking of R100 billion in infrastructure finance and the revitalisation of freight rail and ports through increased private sector involvement. “All of these bold steps are shaping the future of transport and logistics in Africa,” he asserts.
Jeff Blackbeard, Moore Global Director of Sectors and a key advisor to the Transport Evolution Africa Forum & Expo, underscores the findings of their report. “It’s clear that Africa’s transport sector is on the cusp of transformative growth. With a focus on digitalisation, sustainability, and infrastructure development, we’re seeing unprecedented opportunities for investment and innovation. This report underscores the need for strategic partnerships and policy alignment to unlock the full potential of Africa’s transport networks, ultimately driving economic integration and prosperity across the continent.”
This year’s forum will delve into critical areas such as cross-border trade facilitation; innovative financing strategies for port, rail, road, and aviation projects through public-private partnerships; the urgent transition towards sustainable green transport and logistics; and the future trajectory of supply chain management in Africa.
A dedicated Special Economic Zones (SEZ) Lounge will spotlight the burgeoning role of SEZs in shaping Africa’s transport infrastructure landscape. With over 300 SEZs scattered across 38 countries, this platform will connect governments, financiers, and private sector players to explore investment prospects and drive development in the transport and logistics sectors.
For top-tier executives, the exclusive Transport CEO Forum, operating under Chatham House rules, offers a confidential space to share experiences and insights on critical issues ranging from financial viability and regulatory reforms to technological adoption and environmental standards.
Adding a touch of recognition, the Transport Evolution Africa Awards will celebrate the trailblazers who are transforming the sector, honouring achievements in sustainability, women in transport, transformation, and leadership.
With an anticipated attendance of more than 5,000 professionals from over 20 countries and more than 100 exhibitors, this combined event is poised to be the continent’s largest congregation of transport, construction, and infrastructure experts.
“This gathering of industry specialists and stakeholders is essential to enhance the efficiency of rail, port and road systems across the African continent,” concludes Low, “and promises to foster growth and promote cross-border investment and partnerships, to fully realise the potential for transport services to evolve on the continent.” The trillion-dollar question now is whether Africa can muster the political will, attract the necessary investment, and implement the bold reforms needed to bridge its infrastructure gap and fully capitalise on the immense opportunities that lie ahead.
