DHL’s digital road freight platform Saloodo! opens for business in Uganda

DHL Global Forwarding, the leading international provider of air, sea and road freight services, has launched its digital road freight platform, Saloodo! to that will connect shippers and transport providers in Uganda to its growing digital network on the continent.

With a total road network of over 129 000 kilometres, it is no surprise that almost 95% of cargo freight in the country relies almost entirely on road transportation.

However, similar to the situation in the rest of sub-Saharan Africa, there remains infrastructural challenges – a top priority to address as laid out by the Ugandan government in its National Development Plan II and Vision 2040.

A 2016 World Bank report found that imports of transport and logistics services make up 55% of Uganda’s total service imports while Uganda’s transport and logistics exports sit at only 3.7%.

Tobias Maier, CEO of Saloodo! Middle East and Africa said he is convinced that logistics has and will continue to play a decisive role in shaping a country’s economic development.

“A robust logistic network will create the foundation for local businesses to succeed, and enhance trade. With the introduction and integration of a digital platform like Saloodo!, a more efficient logistics sector would increase Uganda’s potential for economic diversification and growth," he said.

“Every section of the Ugandan economy requires transport and logistics services including raw materials producers, manufacturing, exporters, importers, wholesalers and retailers,” he added.

The launch of Saloodo! In Uganda will inject greater transparency and efficiency to the country and regional road network by providing real-time visibility, enabling shippers to identify trusted and reliable freight carriers in Uganda and several neighbouring countries.

This will in turn help carriers manage existing fleets and optimise capacity with full-truckload shipments. Backed by DHL’s global and regional footprint and expertise, all contractual relationships on the platform are organised via the existing local DHL entity, providing trust and peace of mind to carriers and shippers alike.

“Digital transformation is a top priority for the industry and this push for digitalisation will further enhance trade efficiency and help businesses to grow,” Maier said.