Through this initiative, a total of 1 000 truck drivers are receiving special hampers at truck stops nationally, in recognition of their tremendous and valuable contribution to keep Africa moving, and most importantly the country’s economy.

Michael Dietz, President and CEO of Daimler Trucks & Buses Southern Africa, says that truck drivers are without a doubt the unsung heroes who play a critical role in ensuring that we truly keep Africa moving.

“I am particularly thrilled to have, together with our dealer partners, rolled up our sleeves to express the depth of our gratitude to every truck driver on our roads. From moving various goods and services across multiple industries daily, it is important to remember that almost every item consumed in South Africa is eventually loaded in a truck.

“There is, therefore, no better time than the present to celebrate and appreciate our brothers and sisters for undertaking one of the most demanding and crucial jobs that contribute to the economy,” he says.

“As a DTBSA Dealer Partner, we are privileged to join forces with Head Office on this praiseworthy initiative, especially at this critical juncture in our country. The transport industry is undoubtedly the backbone of the economy, and it is for this reason that we have set aside October to salute and support all our courageous truck drivers for working tirelessly to ensure economic success,” concludes Cornél Oelofse, Franchise Executive Commercial Vehicles Division, Orbit Commercial Vehicles.

The DTBSA participating dealers will select a truck stop within the regions they operate in throughout October and will dedicate a day to distribute at least 100 hampers to truck drivers. The driver hamper consists of essential items to support truck drivers whilst they are on the move delivering goods daily, and these include a branded buff, facemask, branded bag, stainless steel flask, and a Trucking Wellness information leaflet.

Furthermore, some dealers have also partnered with the Trucking Wellness Programme to assist drivers with on-site health screening during the handover events.