Built for the Critical Moments: Delivering FMD Vaccine Shipment to South Africa

When South Africa needed it most, logistics had to deliver more than cargo, it had to deliver certainty.

20 – 23 February 2026 marked a major milestone in the country’s response to the Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak, as critical vaccines arrived safely on South African soil. Behind the scenes, we played a key role in ensuring the secure, compliant and time-sensitive movement of this high-priority consignment from aircraft to final delivery.

Global Collaboration

The operation began in Argentina, where our trusted partner agent, Puma Cargo, represented by Ezequiel Gonzalez, works closely with vaccine manufacturer Biogenesis Bagó. Through strong relationships and seamless coordination, an introduction was facilitated to CEO Daniel Helou, enabling aligned planning for clearance and distribution upon arrival in South Africa.

From the outset, we knew this would be a complex, high-visibility operation. Given the national importance of shipment, the media and stakeholder attention surrounding the FMD outbreak, there was no margin for error.

But this is exactly where experience, network strength, and operational precision matter most.

Precision Under Pressure

To safeguard the integrity and security of the vaccines, we implemented:

• Temperature-controlled vehicles (TCVs)
• Armed escorts due to the high value of the cargo
• Guardforce security support
• Direct movement from aircraft to designated cold rooms
• Continuous escort through to final delivery

Every step was carefully coordinated to protect the cold chain and ensure full compliance with regulatory requirements.

Simultaneously, our team managed all clearance processes, working closely with:

• SARS Customs
• Port Health
• SAHPRA
• The State Veterinarian

Each government entity recognised the urgency of the consignment and provided exceptional cooperation to expedite approvals and documentation.

A Moment That Mattered

Upon arrival, members of our team had the privilege of meeting with the Minister of Agriculture, John Steenhuisen, alongside Daniel Helou and the Ambassador of Argentina.

Watching the shipment come through the doors was more than an operational success, it was an emotional moment.

Because this delivery wasn’t just about logistics.

It was about protecting South Africa’s agricultural sector, safeguarding livelihoods, and supporting food security.

In lighter moments during the planning stages, the team joked that Aramex would “#SaveTheBraai”, because if there’s one thing that unites South Africans, it’s our love for a good braai. But behind that humour was a serious mission: protecting an industry that supports communities, farmers, and businesses across the country.

Built for the Critical Moments

The sleepless nights, the contingency planning, the coordination across borders were all worth it.

This breakthrough shipment is a testament to what can be achieved when global partnerships, regulatory collaboration, and logistics expertise align with purpose.

And as always, we’re already planning the next shipment.

Because when it matters most, delivery is not optional.