Strategic Management of Transport Infrastructure: Implications for the Efficiency of Logistics Operations in Africa

Transport infrastructure is a critical determinant of economic growth and development in Africa. Despite the continent’s rich resource base and strategic positioning, inadequate and poorly managed transport infrastructure hampers logistics efficiency and trade competitiveness. This study investigates how strategic management of transport infrastructure impacts the efficiency of logistics operations in Africa, identifying key barriers and proposing scalable solutions. The analysis covers sub-Saharan and North African regions, using a combination of macroeconomic data, institutional reports, and case studies from countries such as Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, and Morocco. A mixed-method approach was used, including a review of regional infrastructure strategies, World Bank logistics performance data, and expert interviews. Qualitative thematic analysis was applied to case studies, and quantitative logistics efficiency indicators were statistically evaluated. Strategic planning, public-private partnerships (PPPs), and institutional reforms correlate positively with improved logistics performance. Conversely, fragmented governance, underinvestment, and regulatory bottlenecks negatively affect logistics efficiency. Improving the strategic management of transport infrastructure can significantly enhance Africa’s logistics operations. The study highlights the need for integrated national transport master plans, regional cooperation, and targeted investments. This research contributes to the discourse on African development by linking infrastructure strategy with logistical effectiveness and trade facilitation, offering actionable policy insights. Employing a mixed-methods design and a cross-regional comparison between sub-Saharan and North Africa, the study offers a holistic perspective on scalable solutions.