The Department of Transport, led by Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga, hosted the first ever inaugural truck driver safety and wellness symposium, under the theme: Your Safety and Wellness is OUR Concern at Birchwood Hotel in Gauteng.
The truck driver safety event took place on March 6th and 7th, 2024. Various government officials, such as Ms Mashava, an Integrated Transport Planning (ITP) DDG, CEO of SANRAL, Mr Reginald Demana, CEO of Cross-Border Road Transport Agency (CBRTA), Mr Lwazi Mboyi, as well as representatives from Gauteng Health, Road Accident Fund, RTMC, and RTIA were in attendance. Private companies including Michelin, Santan, Engen, Guud, Affinity Health, Isuzu, Volvo, Iveco, Khoi, NBCRFLI, Jonsson Workwear, Trucking Wellness, Truck Fuelnet, Hollard, Virgin Active, Electro Medics, and others also participated and sponsored the event.
The first day of the event involved truck drivers arriving, followed by a gala dinner sponsored by Michelin where they met the Minister of Transport, Ms Chikunga. On the second day, there was a panel discussion with government and private sector representatives addressing important issues in the freight industry. Topics such as road safety and healthcare accessibility were thoroughly discussed, with key decision makers and actual drivers participating to gain a better understanding of the challenges faced by other truck drivers.
At the esteemed event, sponsors provided a range of health screenings, including blood pressure, glucose, cholesterol, HIV, BMI, TB, and STI tests for truck drivers. They also offered assistance with industry-related issues. Additionally, they provided head, neck, and shoulder massages for drivers looking to relax.
Engen, a sponsor of the event, introduced a variety of nutritious meal choices at its truck stops. Participants were able to try out and sample these meal options first-hand at the symposium.
The symposium marked the beginning of numerous efforts to improve conditions for truck drivers in South Africa. It was highly successful, providing attendees with not only knowledge, but also practical insights into the concept of wellness and available remedies.
