COVID-19 is putting pressure on truck drivers in East Africa: here’s why.

by admin May 29, 2020

May 29, 2020 329 views

….

COVID-19 is putting pressure on truck drivers in East Africa: here’s why.

In the UK, COVID-19 highlighted the importance of truck drivers as key workers. In East Africa, the pandemic is having the opposite effect.

In the UK, HGV drivers are being rightly praised as heroes for keeping shelves stocked and delivering vital supplies amidst a nationwide lockdown. In East Africa, however, truck drivers are facing increasing hostility as they are blamed for the spread of the virus.

In an article published in the CILT COVID-19 Bulletin 04, we explored the effects of national governments’ travel restrictions aimed at stopping the spread of COVID-19. With reports of drivers being turned away from their usual rest stops, one concern is that these restrictions could lead to drivers taking fewer breaks, increasing the likelihood of fatigue. Limited access to basic wash facilities could also affect drivers’ ability to regularly wash their hands in compliance with national guidelines.

Transaid and local partners, Safe Way Right Way, are developing driver specific sensitisation materials to ensure that drivers and their employers have access to guidance on how to limit the threat of exposure. This will be combined with the provision of hand-washing equipment and masks to protect drivers. We are also partnering with transporter associations to extend the reach of these messages.

Read the full story

Missed our webinar? Catch it again!

On 5th May we hosted a webinar explaining how we are adapting to COVID-19. Featuring speakers from the MAM@Scale programme, as well as members of the Transaid team, this is not to be missed!
Catch it again on youtube.

Get fit in lockdown and help us transform lives

Make the most of the weather and take on one of our virtual challenges! From hiking the Inca trail to cycling LEJOG, cross a challenge off your bucket list on your own terms. Our challenges are all social-distancing approved!
Get involved here.

New dates announced for Cycle Malawi

After making the hearbreaking but necessary decision postpone our Cycle Malawi ride, we are thrilled to announce the new dates: 18th – 26th September 2021. Why not make your next trip the adventure of a lifetime? With only one space remaining, now is the time to take the plunge!
Sign up today.

Coronavirus (COVID-19)East Africa Transaid

COVID-19 is putting pressure on truck drivers in East Africa: here’s why.

Missed our webinar? Catch it again!

Get fit in lockdown and help us transform lives

New dates announced for Cycle Malawi

Sharrow Marine CEO, Greg Sharrow, Featured in BoatTest Episode

Hot Port News from GAC

You may also like

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply