A prototype drone is seen carrying a parcel for delivery. Picture: YouTube
As technology advances and regulations evolve, the use of drones in South Africa is set to soar. Research from Industry ARC predicts that the local small drones market will reach $134.5 million by 2025 – growing at a steady CAGR (compound annual growth rate) of 22.35% from 2020 to 2025.
A major driver behind the boom is growing demand for smaller, more versatile models. Technological advancements have made these compact drones increasingly capable, with applications ranging from military surveillance and high-definition imaging to crucial cargo delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In 2019, the South African National Blood Service (SANBS) launched a pioneering project using drones to deliver emergency blood supplies for just R10 per trip, ensuring that vital resources reach patients in need quickly and efficiently.
Farmers also stand to benefit, with the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) leading precision agriculture efforts. The CSIR's platform provides farmers with near real-time information on soil and crop conditions, enabling them to make informed decisions and pro-actively manage risks, ultimately safeguarding South Africa's agricultural productivity and food security.
Experts like Damian Velayadum, Group Financial Director at Fastway Couriers, believe that drones could be technology catalysts for businesses in this data-dominant era.
"Due to the sheer volume of parcel deliveries – Fastway delivers around 14 million each year – using drones for last-mile delivery would be logistically tricky. But this technology definitely has scope for us."
While Velayadum sees future potential for drone deliveries in e-commerce, there are still challenges to overcome such as regulatory restrictions.
“For remote or hard-to-reach areas, drones can indeed provide a reliable delivery solution,” comments Velayadum. Commercial drone operations in South Africa require pilots to be registered and operate under the SACAA regulations. “Drones weighing more than 7 kilograms are not permitted to fly, complicating their widespread use for deliveries,” he points out.
Despite these challenges, as drone technology and regulations continue to evolve, they will find applications across various industries, transforming the way South Africa works.
IOL