MORE than 500 participants—including logistics and transport experts, policymakers, trade facilitators, regulatory authorities, port officials, freight forwarders, researchers and innovators—are expected to convene in Zanzibar on April 30 for a pivotal regional conference.

Dr. Khalid Salum Muhammed, the Infrastructure, Communications and Transport minister for Zanzibar, said here yesterday that the event has been organized by the Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations in Africa and the Middle East (FIATA-RAME).

At a media briefing over conference preparations, he said the conference will serve as a platform for knowledge exchange, policy discussions and exploration of modern and sustainable logistics solutions.

"The forum will focus on cross-sector collaboration by promoting dialogue among service providers, regulators, producers, retailers and tech companies. It will also delve into the future of logistics, with discussions on digital transformation, emerging technologies and innovative solutions aimed at reducing environmental impact," he stated.

The conference will also emphasize policy advocacy, pushing for legal and regulatory frameworks that support a more resilient and sustainable logistics sector, he explained.

“It will offer an international networking platform, enabling participants to engage with clients, investors and potential partners, building capacity and strengthening skills ion current needs in the transport and logistics industry,” he specified.

Key topics to be discussed include trade facilitation, financing, insurance, technology and professional development within the industry, he said, hinting that delegates will also gain insights into opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

This includes the logistics sector's role in driving sustainable economic growth across Africa, the Middle East and globally, he said.

Beyond the conference sessions, the event will feature expert exhibitions, B2B and B2G sessions, product and service showcases and organized tourism, he said, noting that excursions \re intended to highlight the country’s natural and cultural attractions.

The conference aligns perfectly with the government’s recent infrastructure investments, particularly in the blue economy, he said, reflecting on the theme and timing of this event.

An upgrade of Malindi port, construction of Shumba Urban, Kizimkazi and Mangapwani ports and the development of offshore oil and gas offloading infrastructure (CBM) at Mangapwani are key projects linked to the blue economy.

Others include building sea transport stations, construction of Wete port, Mkoani port improvement, building two high-speed passenger ferries and the Mpigaduri passenger terminal, he pointed out.

Local stakeholders in the transportation and logistics sector and in the neighbourhood need to seize this unique opportunity by participating in the landmark event, the minister added.