Advancing Freight Intermodalism In South Africa: A Systems Thinking Approach

South Africa’s freight logistics system faces significant challenges, including high transport costs, infrastructure inefficiencies, road congestion, and an overreliance on road freight. In her doctoral study, Imperatives for the Advancement of Freight Intermodalism in South Africa: A Systems Thinking Approach, Sandra Jean Gertenbach explores how a systems-thinking perspective can help transform the country’s freight transport system through greater collaboration, innovation, and integration among key stakeholders.

Understanding Freight Intermodalism

Freight intermodalism refers to the seamless movement of goods using two or more transport modes, such as road, rail, ports, and terminals, without repeatedly handling the cargo itself. It relies on efficient connections between transport modes, supported by infrastructure, technology, information sharing, and collaboration among industry participants.

The study by Sandra Jean Gertenbach argued that intermodalism is more than simply using multiple transport modes. It requires coordinated interactions between logistics service providers, transport operators, terminal managers, policymakers, and customers to create a connected and efficient freight ecosystem.

The Freight Challenge Facing South Africa

South Africa’s freight system is characterised by a severe imbalance between road and rail transport. Approximately 85% of freight is transported by road, while only 15% travels by rail. This imbalance contributes to road congestion, infrastructure deterioration, high accident rates, increased logistics costs, and rising carbon emissions.

These challenges are compounded by inefficiencies at key interfaces between ports, terminals, rail networks, and road transport systems. Despite decades of policy support for shifting freight from road to rail and developing integrated intermodal solutions, implementation has remained limited.

Why a Systems Thinking Approach Matters

The study adopts systems thinking as its theoretical foundation, viewing freight intermodalism as a complex system made up of interconnected actors, infrastructure, technologies, policies, and relationships. Rather than focusing on individual organisations, systems thinking examines how the various components interact and influence overall system performance.

According to the research, South Africa’s freight challenges cannot be solved through isolated interventions. Meaningful improvement requires understanding the interdependencies between system actors and identifying leverage points where coordinated action can produce a significant impact.

Collaboration as the Key Enabler

One of the central findings of the study is that collaboration, coordination, and cooperation among freight system actors are essential for advancing intermodalism. The research highlights that government agencies, rail operators, road hauliers, logistics providers, ports, terminals, and technology companies must work collectively towards shared objectives rather than pursuing narrow organisational interests.

The study introduces the concept of a “CCC Network”, Collaboration, Coordination, and Cooperation, as a mechanism for creating value across the freight ecosystem. Such partnerships can improve efficiency, encourage innovation, and enhance overall system competitiveness.

 Technology and Innovation as Catalysts

Technology plays a critical role in enabling intermodal freight systems. The research highlights the importance of digital platforms, information-sharing systems, artificial intelligence, data analytics, and other modern technologies in improving coordination and visibility across the freight value chain.

The continuous integration of technology, innovation, and human capability is identified as a prerequisite for strengthening system interactions and unlocking opportunities for improved performance.

The Need for a National Roadmap

The study found that South Africa requires a clear national roadmap for freight intermodal development. Such a roadmap should provide strategic direction, define actor roles and responsibilities, establish implementation priorities, and create the necessary enabling environment for collaboration and investment.

While policy frameworks already exist, the challenge lies in translating policy intentions into coordinated action and practical implementation. The research argues that stronger alignment between government, industry, and infrastructure stakeholders is essential.

Key Benefits of Advancing Intermodalism

Improved freight intermodalism offers substantial benefits for South Africa, including:

• Lower logistics and transportation costs.
• Improved infrastructure utilisation and maintenance.
• Enhanced supply chain resilience.
• Reduced road congestion and environmental impact.
• Increased economic competitiveness.
• Greater investment attraction and job creation.
• Stronger regional and international trade performance.

The study argues that an efficient and integrated freight system can make a significant contribution to national economic growth, sustainability, and social well-being.

Conclusion

The research concluded that South Africa’s freight challenges require more than infrastructure investment or policy reform alone. Advancing freight intermodalism demands a systemic transformation built on collaboration, shared objectives, technological innovation, and coordinated action among all stakeholders. By focusing on the critical interfaces between system components and adopting a systems-thinking approach, South Africa can build a more competitive, resilient, and sustainable freight logistics system that supports long-term national development.