Africa’s freight and logistics sector is entering 2026 with renewed momentum, sharper focus and growing confidence.
After years of disruption, rising costs and infrastructure strain, the industry is now undergoing a visible shift driven by digitalisation, regional trade growth, and smarter freight strategies.
At the center of this transformation is technology. Logistics operators across the continent are moving away from fragmented paper-based systems toward digital platforms that offer real time shipment visibility predictive planning and faster decision making.
For shippers this means fewer surprises improved reliability and greater control over cargo movement a major change for an industry long challenged by delays and inefficiencies.
Infrastructure upgrades are reinforcing this progress. In East Africa, the Port of Mombasa’s digital port systems are helping reduce cargo dwell times by streamlining gate access billing and tracking.
These improvements are strengthening Kenya’s position as a regional trade gateway and easing pressure on supply chains serving landlocked countries.
Southern Africa is also seeing important developments. South Africa’s freight rail reform which allows greater private sector participation is gradually reshaping how goods move across the country.
Combined with ongoing port modernisation the reforms are expected to reduce road congestion and improve cost efficiency for exporters and manufacturers.
Regional trade is adding further momentum. The African Continental Free Trade Area is encouraging more goods to move within Africa rather than solely toward overseas markets.
This has increased demand for cross border logistics services regional warehousing and multimodal freight solutions particularly in West and Southern Africa.
Policy shifts are also supporting growth. ECOWAS’ decision to cut air transport taxes from 2026 is expected to lower the cost of air cargo benefiting high value and time sensitive sectors such as pharmaceuticals perishables and e commerce.
Industry players say this could unlock new regional air freight routes and improve connectivity across West Africa.
Sustainability is becoming part of the conversation too. While still at pilot stage fuel efficient fleets and electric freight trials led by major global logistics players operating in Africa signal a gradual move toward greener transport solutions.
Challenges remain including infrastructure gaps and uneven digital adoption. However, the outlook for 2026 is optimistic.
Freight is no longer viewed as a background service but as a strategic driver of trade competitiveness and economic growth.
As Africa’s logistics networks become more connected data driven and regionally focused, 2026 marks a turning point for freight on the continent and those who adapt fastest will shape the future of African trade.