Nearly 5 years have passed since the first COVID-19 case was recorded. The pandemic brought unprecedented challenges to global transport and logistics systems, disrupting operations and altering the way goods and people moved across borders. While land borders remained open for essential goods and services, transport and logistics operators faced significant disruptions, necessitating a rapid evolution in their management practices.
In our recent study, we revisit the Impact of COVID-19 on Zambia’s transport and logistics operations. Through a survey of transport and logistics firms and interviews with border authorities, we quantify the pandemic’s effects and offer forward-looking recommendations to build resilience in this critical sector.
Key findings from our study reveal reductions in work hours, sharp declines in revenues, and a notable deterioration in customs efficiency. Our recommendations highlight that building resilience will require concerted efforts to improve infrastructure, accelerate digitalization, building financial resilience and strengthen stakeholder collaboration. These actions are essential, especially as new public health threats, like the Mpox virus, emerge. As the frequency and intensity of public health crises are projected to rise due to climate change, its more critical than ever for operators to fortify their business operations against such disruptions.
We extend our gratitude to the Zambia Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport, the Road Transport and Safety Agency and the Truckers Association of Zambia for their financial and technical support in making this study possible.
Read through our full report for all the details and recommendations: Download