Africa cold chain industry targets infrastructure growth and food loss reduction

The African cold chain industry is poised to address significant infrastructure gaps and food loss challenges. The Global Cold Chain Alliance (GCCA) will host its African Cold Chain Conference in Johannesburg, South Africa, on September 2-3, 2026. Led by CEO Sara Stickler and GCCA Africa President Dr. Newton Matope, the event aims to foster dialogue among logistics providers, policymakers, and supply chain partners to navigate regional uncertainties and evolving global logistics needs.

Addressing these logistical needs is critical for the continent, as sub-Saharan Africa recorded a food-loss rate of 23% in 2023. The cold-chain logistics market in Africa is estimated at £360 million, with the potential to reach £4 billion if infrastructure and investment constraints are resolved. Growth is driven by the demand for dependable temperature-controlled storage and transportation in the food, pharmaceutical, and horticultural sectors. However, opportunities vary significantly across nations such as Nigeria, Kenya, Egypt, and South Africa due to differing energy conditions, regulations, and food-production systems.