Isuzu partners with inaugural Truck Driver Safety and Wellness Symposium

Isuzu has teamed up with the inaugural Truck Driver Safety and Wellness Symposium. The symposium is designed to address the challenges and opportunities facing the trucking industry in South Africa and aligns with Isuzu’s renewed global strategy and ongoing commitment to sustainability, economic growth and social impact.

Isuzu recognises the critical role that truck drivers play in the South African economy and supply chain and the brands participation in this symposium reflects its commitment to addressing the challenges of the trucking industry while at the same time championing industry best practices.

“We are committed to contributing positively towards all our stakeholders, this support may be in the form of education, community upliftment or upskilling. We are of the view that trucks are currently the backbone of our economy – and truck drivers are the cornerstone of the industry success,” says Craig Uren, Senior Vice President: Revenue Generation (SACU) at Isuzu.

The Truck Driver Safety and Wellness symposium, initiated by the SaferStops Association in partnership with the Department of Transport aims to bring together key stake holders, including truck drivers, fleet managers, government representatives and private sector leaders. The event aims to promote driver health, safety and well-being while strengthening the transport and freight sectors commitment to innovation and regulatory excellence.

Designing trucks with safety at their core

Isuzu’s involvement with the symposium aligns with the company's own global strategy, which emphasises sustainability, satisfaction, social impact and engagement.

At the event, Isuzu will showcase a NPR 400 Crew Cab AMT for truck drivers to get a look and feel for. This particular model features a double cab which has been specifically designed to protect the safety of both the driver and his entire crew. 

The fitment of an AMT gearbox, which utilises a two-pedal system with a clever gear selector also contributes to overall safety by giving the driver more time to focus on the road ahead and the task at hand.

“Isuzu recognises that healthier drivers with access to essential resources and training lead to safer roads, reduced downtime, and improved operational efficiency for fleets. By prioritising the well-being of truck drivers, Isuzu reinforces its brand commitment to a positive influence throughout the industry,” says Uren.

Recognising the importance of truck drivers

The workforce employed in the trucking industry continue to face significant challenges, including driver shortages, an increased average age, gender-based violence (GBV) and increasing mental health concerns.

The Truck Driver Safety and Wellness Symposium aims to inspire a more sustainable and attractive career path for drivers by tackling numerous pressing issues.

A focus on driver safety will see the symposium explore innovative technologies and practices aimed at improving road safety and protecting assets.

A spotlight on health and wellness will promote healthier lifestyle options and support systems for drivers.

The symposium also aims to foster collaboration by creating a platform for sharing best practices and fostering partnerships across the transport and freight sector.

The Truck Driver Safety and Wellness Symposium aims to contribute to the creation of a robust and sustainable logistics framework that benefits all industry stakeholders, including drivers, fleet operators and beyond.

Event details 

May 8th – 9th 2025, Birchwood Hotel, 44 Viewpoint Street, Bartlett, Boksburg, 1459.

For more information visit: https://www.tdsw.co.za/