The Global Cold Chain Foundation (GCCF) has launched a mentorship program connecting cold chain experts with local operators in West Africa, as part of the USDA-funded Emerging Markets Program. Since January, GCCA and CEBA members have provided one-on-one technical support to professionals in Senegal, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Morocco, and Mauritania.
The initiative aims to improve technical skills among cold storage operators, warehouse designers, and logistics personnel in the region. Seven mentorship relationships have been established so far, involving experts from Brazil, Canada, Lebanon, South Africa, and the United States. Mentors and mentees meet virtually, with some maintaining regular monthly contact.
Among the participants are Willie Lafferty, Director of Engineering, and Emily Goracke, Customer Account Manager at SnoTemp Cold Storage. “I came in hoping to share my knowledge of the cold chain, but I walked away with a profound appreciation for the universal challenges and innovative spirit that connects our global industry,” said Goracke.
Lafferty added: “It was a good experience to learn the challenges and opportunities in developing nations. The ability to spread the GCCA efforts to up and comers while building increased resilience in our own company programs is rewarding.”
GCCF plans to build on the outcomes of this mentorship program in future international projects. Participating member companies include SnoTemp, Congebec, CT-Technologies, SuperFrio Logística Frigorificada, United States Cold Storage, Vertical Cold Storage, and CCS Logistics.
