Prof. Michel Tshiyoyo, from the SPMA, played an active role in the BRICS Business Council – Ocean Economy Forum held on August 21, 2023, at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Johannesburg. Prof. Tshiyoyo's engagement was specifically within the BRICS Summit High-Level Ocean Panel Session, focused on the following key themes:
- Maritime Supply Chains: This aspect centered on addressing emerging challenges within supply chains and establishing infrastructure linkages.
- Ocean Sustainability and Climate Response: This topic aimed to tackle environmental and climate-related issues pertaining to the ocean.
- Ocean Economy Development: This theme delved into business and investment opportunities within the maritime and ocean domains. Prof. Tshiyoyo participated in the panel discussions under the theme "Building Sustainable, Resilient, and Secure Integrated Maritime Supply Chains." During these discussions, he emphasised the importance of fostering partnerships between BRICS nations and Africa. Such partnerships would facilitate improved governance, infrastructure development, and reduced trade barriers across African countries, ultimately driving inclusive growth.
Within his contributions, Prof. Tshiyoyo highlighted several governance challenges that African countries face:
- Absence of coordinated efforts: He noted that the lack of coordinated efforts among African nations leads to fragmented infrastructure management. This results in varied tariff systems, disruptions in cargo flow between countries, and inadequate capacity at inland railway terminals.
- Lack of capacity: Prof. Tshiyoyo highlighted the limited involvement of the private sector by port authorities. This lack of private sector engagement hampers the development of ports and above all, the design of master plans for infrastructure development. Consequently, certain ports are well-equipped while others lack essential infrastructure.
- One-Stop border post absence: He pointed out the absence of efficient one-stop border posts, causing delays for trucks connecting maritime ports to landlocked countries or delivering goods to various inland destinations. For instance, the South Africa – Democratic Republic of the Congo corridor involves passing through multiple countries (Zimbabwe and Zambia) with varying road conditions and toll systems, contributing to delays and congestion.
Alongside these challenges, Prof. Tshiyoyo identified several opportunities for advancement:
- Formalising relationships: He suggested formalising BRICS' relationship with the African Union, aligning collaborative schemes like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the Asia- Africa Growth Corridor (AAGC) with Africa's vision (Agenda 2063).
- Dedicated BRICS–Africa strategy: Prof. Tshiyoyo emphasized the importance of creating a dedicated strategy focusing on infrastructures and logistics between BRICS and Africa.
- Investing in iIntegrated corridors: He advocated for investments in integrated corridors encompassing railways, roads, and ports.
- Promoting inclusivity: Prof. Tshiyoyo stressed the need for involving all stakeholders in conversations around trade and investment initiatives within the continent.
- Capacity building: He called for investments in capacity building to enhance the construction of integrated railways, roads, and ports.The panel session drew significant attendance from representatives of BRICS countries, business leaders, and industry experts. Notably, Mrs. Sindisiwe Chikunga, the Minister of Transport for South Africa, graced the event with her presence, delivering a keynote address and actively participating in all the sessions.
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