A new logistics industry body the Multimodal Inland Port Association (MIPA), formed by organisations in the transportation sector, has been launched to enhance logistics performance, reduce costs and boost efficiency.

The association is dedicated to improving Southern Africa's supply chain. Specifically, the MIPA aims to optimise efficiency and cost-effectiveness by increasing cargo transportation on rail through the use of more inland ports.

The MIPA's strategy revolves around promoting efficient multimodalism, which entails establishing a network of privately operated freight hubs with rail terminals across the region to provide a more efficient and cost-effective logistics service, thereby optimising cargo transportation and bolstering regional connectivity, says MIPA chairperson Warwick Lord.

The MIPA's objectives are anchored in five core pillars, namely reducing logistics costs, enhancing capabilities, refining supply chain management, expanding reach and bolstering compliance with policies and regulations.

"We are excited to introduce the MIPA and its vision for a more sustainable and efficient logistics system," he says.

The founding organisations include Cato Ridge Inland Port, Tambo Springs Development Company, Cape Winelands Inland Port, the Musina Intermodal Terminal, RailRunner South Africa and RailRunner Services.

The MIPA will participate in the Transport Forum on May 23. At the event, Lord will provide an introductory presentation of the MIPA and its vision to implement practical intermodal solutions for the region.

These solutions address the challenges encountered at ports and along transportation corridors, paving the way for enhanced efficiency and effectiveness in cargo logistics, he explains.

“We look forward to the opportunity to engage with industry to share our vision for the MIPA,” Lord says.