The Road Freight Association (RFA) marks a historic milestone—50 years of driving South Africa’s economy by ensuring a stable labour environment, safer and more efficient logistics operations through compliance, conformance and better technologies and better reasonable legislation through engagement and negotiation. This will be celebrated at its 2025 Convention, set for 23-25 May at the breathtaking Champagne Sports Resort in KwaZulu-Natal Drakensberg.
Themed “A Celebration of Trucking,” this annual three-day event gathers hundreds of industry leaders, from RFA CEO Gavin Kelly to Absa’s Chief Investment Officer Ricardo Smith, to honour half a century of resilience and innovation. With road freight hauling over 80% of the nation’s goods, the Convention celebrates a sector that keeps South Africa’s heart pumping—and charts its next bold chapter.
A Packed Three-Day Programme
The festivities kick off on Friday, 23 May, with the Golf Day Challenge, a lively networking tradition set against the Drakensberg’s rolling hills. After prize-giving, attendees can unwind with pre-dinner drinks in the Truck Display area, where gleaming rigs showcase the industry’s muscle. The evening ends with a “Celebrate Good Times” welcome function, setting a festive tone. Saturday’s conference dives deep: a panel of experts tackles economic headwinds, a session explores AI’s role in trucking’s future, and another examines rail partnerships to ease road strain.
Quizzes, a surprise guest appearance, and pre-dinner drinks lead into the black-tie Gala Dinner—a glitzy affair expected to stretch late into the night. Sunday wraps with reflections, networking, and a look ahead.
Industry Leaders Share Insights
The speaker line-up promises real firepower. RFA Chairman Penwell Lunga will reflect on five decades of advocacy, while Steven Sutherland, General Manager at MiX by Powerfleet, unpacks the role of telematics in smarter fleets. Political analyst Dr. Ongama Mtimka will decode policy shifts, and Ricardo Smith from Absa will explore investment trends shaping logistics.
“For 50 years, the RFA has kept South Africa moving, pushing for smarter, safer, greener trucking,” says Kelly. “This Convention isn’t just a celebration—it’s our call to tackle today’s challenges, from fuel costs to infrastructure, and to seize tomorrow’s opportunities.”
Trucking Titans Unite
Industry giants are rolling in with support: Powerfleet, TotalEnergies, CTRLFleet, Daimler Truck Southern Africa, Engen, BRAVETech, Astron Energy, MAN Trucks, Global Trade Solutions, Absa, Biddulphs and Indwe Risk Services – a list of sponsors that underscores trucking’s unity. “This backing reflects five decades of grit and growth through economic storms and tech revolutions,” Kelly notes. Beyond the conference, expect dazzling truck displays—think polished chrome and roaring engines—plus exhibitor showcases of cutting-edge gear.
A Spouse Programme offers pampering and relaxation, ensuring something for everyone. From rugged hauling rigs to the Gala Dinner’s red-carpet vibe, it’s a visual feast for attendees and media alike.
Honouring Truck Drivers
The 2025 iteration of “Thank You Trucker” (an initiative of the RFA and IVECO, saluting the men and women who power South Africa’s supply chains) will be showcased at the IVECO truck display. “Drivers are the heartbeat of this nation—without them, nothing moves,” Kelly emphasises. “This will be the fourth year that we shine the light on these unsung heroes who brave endless roads, tight deadlines, and tough conditions to keep shelves stocked and factories humming.” This tribute underscores trucking’s human core amid its high-tech future.
The Backbone of South Africa’s Economy
Since 1975, the RFA has fought for an industry that employs thousands, links farms to cities, and fuels trade with neighbours. Today, it faces rising costs, crumbling roads, and climate pressures—but also opportunities like global supply chains, freight villages, higher sector compliance, ground-breaking technologies, digital tools and green fuels. This Convention blends nostalgia with strategy, spotlighting a sector that’s adapted and thrived for half a century.
Join the Celebration
Registration is live, with early bird specials until 03 April 2025.
Visit www.rfa.co.za/convention2025 or email convention@rfa.co.za for details on accommodation, sponsorships, or to book. Don’t miss this golden jubilee—where trucking’s past meets its future.
