Havenga is a leading researcher in the field of macrologistics that he co-established. Macro-logistics researches the cost and structure of national logistics systems and suggests solutions in order to reduce the total cost of ownership of economies. These solutions could relate to policy, infrastructure or systemic changes (i.e. broader than the freight transport industry). His work stretches from South Africa, to sub-Saharan countries and over the last year, India, Vietnam and China.

He is part of a niche global network of researchers that is sponsored by the World Bank and endeavors to improve the sustainability and affordability of freight logistics worldwide.