The Acting Regional Enterprise Development Hub Manager at Transnet, Ms Nandipha Ngcobo, proudly crossed the Graduation stage at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) to receive a Master of Commerce in Supply Chain Management degree.
Ngcobo has witnessed how strategic decisions can directly influence communities, particularly through supplier development and localisation initiatives.
‘Supply chain management is close to my heart because it sits at the centre of economic growth, development and transformation,” she said. “It is not just about moving goods, it is about creating opportunities, empowering businesses and driving inclusive participation in the economy,” she said.
Supervised by Supply Chain Management specialists Dr Jayrusha Ramasamy-Gurayah and Professor Thokozani Mbhele, Ngcobo’s study, titled: “Environmental Impact of Road Freight Trucking for Sustainable Supply Chains in the Durban Region”, examined the environmental implications of freight transportation in one of South Africa’s busiest logistics hubs.
In her managerial role at Transnet, Ngcobo supports the development and growth of small businesses through training mentorship and access to opportunities within the supply chain sector. She explained that her research directly complements this work by providing insight into how supply chains can be designed more sustainably. “It allows me to advocate not only for economic inclusion but also for environmentally responsible practices within supplier development and procurement processes,” she explained.
Her research explored how the heavy reliance on trucks to move goods in and out of the Port of Durban impacts the environment. While road freight remains essential to keeping supply chains operational, the study found that it also contributes significantly to air pollution, traffic congestion and carbon emissions.
The findings revealed that road freight continues to dominate due to its flexibility and reliability, but this comes at a considerable environmental cost. A major concern highlighted in the study was the underutilisation of rail transport as a more sustainable alternative.
Ngcobo recommended improving the integration of rail and road transport systems, investing in greener logistics solutions, strengthening policy support for sustainable freight systems, and promoting collaboration between government and industry to reduce emissions.
Reflecting on her achievement, Ngcobo described the journey as both challenging and rewarding. “Completing the Master of Commerce represents resilience, discipline and growth. There were moments of uncertainty and exhaustion, but also moments of clarity and purpose,” she said.
“I am incredibly proud of this achievement, not just for what it represents academically, but for the person I have become through the journey,’ she added.
Ngcobo credited her mother, Ms Hlengiwe Ngcobo, for her unwavering support throughout her studies, including relocating to Johannesburg to support her career growth. She praised her daughter for remaining respectful, disciplined and open to guidance, and wished her continued success in her career.
Beyond academia and her professional responsibilities, Ngcobo is passionate about personal development, leadership and empowering young professionals. Through her social media platforms, she actively inspires others to pursue growth and excellence.
Words: Hazel Langa
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini