SmartFleet – Structuring a Digital Logistics Ecosystem in Côte d’Ivoire

Challenges

1. Fragmented Logistics Ecosystem

Africand supported GAD Logistics in addressing one of West Africa’s key challenges: fragmented, informal, and inefficient logistics operations. Most transporters operated independently, without structured systems for coordination, pricing, or delivery tracking.

To overcome this, Africand helped GAD Logistics design a scalable and tech-enabled model that would professionalize fleet management and connect transporters, clients, and dispatchers within a unified digital ecosystem.

2. Limited Digital Adoption

The logistics sector in Côte d’Ivoire remained largely paper-based, with minimal use of technology. Operators relied on manual scheduling and informal communication, leading to lost productivity and inconsistent service quality.

Africand identified this as a critical barrier to scalability and worked to introduce accessible, easy-to-use digital tools adapted to local market realities.

3. Capacity and Coordination Gaps

While GAD Logistics had strong industry insight, it lacked structured processes and operational standards to support rapid growth. Without clear SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures), coordination between drivers, clients, and management was inconsistent.

Africand’s role was to build internal systems and training programs to enhance communication, accountability, and performance tracking across the entire value chain.

3. Financial Constraints for Digital Integration

As an emerging startup, GAD Logistics faced limited resources for large-scale technology deployment. The challenge was to design a cost-effective yet scalable digital framework that could be expanded gradually as revenue and partnerships grew.

Africand developed a lean, modular approach, focusing first on essential digital features fleet tracking, order management, and client feedback before moving to fintech integration and AI-driven analytics.

Our Approach

1. Initial Diagnostic & Market Analysis

Africand conducted an in-depth diagnostic of GAD’s operations and the broader Ivorian logistics ecosystem. This phase mapped transport routes, stakeholder relationships, and market bottlenecks, laying the foundation for a data-driven transformation plan.

2. Business Model Structuring

We co-designed a hybrid business model that combines logistics management with digital intermediation. The model enables GAD Logistics to coordinate informal transporters while ensuring reliability, transparency, and performance-based pricing.

3. SmartFleet Platform Desing

Africand created the SmartFleet prototype a digital platform to manage fleet operations, bookings, payments, and route optimization. Designed for gradual deployment, the system allows transporters to join via mobile interface and connect with verified clients.

4. Partnership Development

We facilitated partnerships with local cooperatives, SMEs, and logistics unions, ensuring early adoption and network effect. This community-driven model made SmartFleet a trusted solution in both urban and regional transport ecosystems.

5. Training & Capacity Building

We facilitated partnerships with local cooperatives, SMEs, and logistics unions, ensuring early adoption and network effect. This community-driven model made SmartFleet a trusted solution in both urban and regional transport ecosystems.

Results

Fast Operational Deployment

Within seven months, GAD Logistics launched its pilot phase in Abidjan, onboarding over 60 transporters and 25 SMEs. Fleet coordination improved, delivery times dropped by 20%, and operating costs decreased by 15%.

Scalable Digital Ecosystem

The SmartFleet framework established a solid foundation for digital logistics in Côte d’Ivoire. Its flexible architecture enables regional expansion and integration with fintech payment systems.

Key Takeaways

• Agility & Scalability: A modular digital model allows growth without heavy infrastructure investment.

• Local Integration: Partnerships with cooperatives ensured rapid adoption and trust.

•  Technology for Impact: Simple, mobile-based tools can transform traditional logistics operations.

• Sustainable Growth: The SmartFleet approach combined digital inclusion, job creation, and efficiency gains.

Conclusion

The SmartFleet ProjectThe SmartFleet Project proved that even in informal markets, structure and technology can drive transformation. By combining local knowledge, digital innovation, and strategic planning, Africand helped GAD Logistics become a key player in West Africa’s logistics modernization.