SAAFF Celebrates 105 Years of Service to South African Logistics

This year marks a truly remarkable milestone as the Southern African Association of Freight Forwarders (SAAFF) celebrates 105 years of service to the South African logistics industry.

On 13 and 14 May 1921, the First Conference of the South African Shipping & Forwarding Agents Association was convened in Port Elizabeth, now Gqeberha, laying the foundation for what would become one of Southern Africa’s most enduring and influential trade and logistics institutions.

As we commemorate this historic occasion, we pay tribute to the pioneering founding members whose vision, commitment and leadership helped establish an organisation that has supported freight, trade and supply chain logistics for more than a century.

Over the past 105 years, SAAFF has evolved alongside a rapidly changing global trade environment, strengthening its advocacy role, supporting industry transformation, and promoting practical, sustainable solutions that enable competitiveness, operational efficiency and growth.

At the heart of SAAFF’s enduring legacy remains the trust and commitment of its members. Their continued support has shaped the organisation’s journey and strengthened its voice across the logistics sector.

As we honour those who laid the foundation before us, we also celebrate the members, stakeholders and industry partners who continue to help shape the future of freight, trade and logistics in Southern Africa.

Thank you for being part of SAAFF’s story.

Read our special 105-year tribute and join us in celebrating this important milestone.