We’re continuing our series on leadership within the booming supply chains of Africa and delving deep into the dynamic and challenging world of the African supply chain ecosystem. In this episode, hosted by Scott Luton and Mary Kate Love, we’re thrilled to have two exceptional guests with us – Jacques de Villiers, Head of Supply Chain for the Omnia Group, an influential heavyweight in the mining and agriculture sectors, and MJ Schoemaker, President of the Board at SAPICS, where she’s leading from the front to uplift and transform supply chain professionalism through educational initiatives and community engagement. Listen in as we discuss the hurdles and prospects of supply chain operations, touching upon critical issues like infrastructure, education, and the shifting paradigms from efficiency to reliability in a world where environmental and social considerations are paramount. MJ brings us insights from the upcoming 46th SAPICS conference, focusing on global healthcare, sustainability, and the importance of networking in our era of significant change. From the fine after-notes of South African wines to the empowering stories of local solutions like WhatsApp-enabled supply networks, we’ll explore how agility, diversity of thought, and mentorship shape future supply chain leaders. Stay tuned for actionable insights and…

Supply chains are recalibrating, and the Middle East and Africa are investing aggressively to meet the moment. In this episode of Supply Chain Now, Scott W. Luton and special guest co-host Yaseen Ahmid welcome Toby Maier, CEO for Middle East and Africa at DHL Global Forwarding, for a wide-ranging conversation on what is changing trade and logistics across the region. Toby breaks down how recent tariffs are redirecting export flows into the Middle East and Africa, why GCC countries are racing to build world-class logistics hubs, and how production is shifting from Turkey toward markets like Egypt and Morocco. They also explore what it will take to build stronger, more reliable supply chains across Africa, from investment in life sciences and healthcare infrastructure to modernized regulation that reduces delays at customs. Toby shares how DHL’s publicly announced $300 million investment through 2030 prioritizes end-to-end capability that helps medicines, vaccines, and other critical products reach communities across a fast-growing population. The conversation also tackles the practical realities of energy access, data centers, and the cost to deliver goods, plus how sustainability efforts like electrified fleets and sustainable aviation fuel can support performance and emissions goals at the same time.   This…