The SaferStops Association, in partnership with the Department of Transport, continues with preparations for the rescheduled Truck Driver Safety and Wellness Symposium, which will now take place on 8 and 9 May 2025 at the same venue: the Birchwood Hotel and Conference Centre in Boksburg. This public-private collaboration will bring together truck drivers, fleet managers, government bodies, and private sector representatives, to address critical challenges and foster progress in the truck driving profession.
Key topics on the agenda include mental health and resilience (self-care practices); living with confidence (last will and testaments); delivering cargo safely and responsibly (how to stay safe on the road); holistic wellness (interconnected wellbeing); empowering drivers (innovation, training and safety); and fintech technology use and financial products (how they impact informal markets).
Significant focus will be placed on driver safety, asset protection, and road safety, alongside drivers’ financial and physical health. Recognising the pivotal role of truck drivers in the supply chain, it will feature discussions and workshops on effective safety measures both on the road and at truck stops, exploring the latest technologies and practices to enhance driver safety.
Transformative Experience
“The 2024 Symposium proved to be a game-changer,” remarked Kabelo Peete, a truck driver at OneLogix. “What set it apart was the unique chance to engage directly with industry leaders who genuinely grasped our day-to-day challenges. These in-person dialogues offered insights that I could not have obtained elsewhere. Beyond safety protocols, the event shone a spotlight on an area that we drivers often overlook – our personal well-being. I am now able to implement practical wellness strategies that have enhanced both my driving performance and my quality of life outside of work,” he says.
The Symposium has also received support from leading original equipment manufacturers and transport operators alike. Filip van den Heede, managing director at UD Trucks Southern Africa, states: “Our participation is a reflection of our commitment to making a meaningful impact in the transport industry. By working together, we are not just driving innovation, we are driving change for a safer, better future.”
“We prioritise investment in comprehensive driver training, cutting-edge safety technology and ongoing coaching to support the well-being of our drivers,” says Edwin Hewitt, CEO of Unitrans. “Our drivers and equipment operators are at the heart of our success and the Symposium offers a valuable opportunity to engage with industry leaders, equipping our drivers with the tools and knowledge they need to excel both, on and off the road.”
Remarkable value
For just R2,000 per person, the Symposium offers excellent value. Attendees will receive a comprehensive package that includes: a two-day symposium pass (with expert-led sessions); meals and refreshments (ensuring drivers are fuelled for learning); a ticket each to the Dinner (a night to celebrate and network); one night’s accommodation at the Birchwood Hotel; a full OHS medical check-up (including a vision test and free prescription glasses if needed); and a gift bag filled with wellness perks. Alternatively, a single-day pass can be purchased for R1 350.
The Symposium enjoys the full support of the Commercial Transport Authority, GUUD Drivers and the South African Express Parcel Association, as well as from sponsors Santam, Engen, Absa, Hollard, Isuzu, Iveco, MANv, UD Trucks and Volvo Trucks. In addition, the Courier Incubator, OneLogix, Powerfleet and Zolabix will all be exhibiting at the event.
The 2025 Symposium co-hosts are the SaferStops Association, the Commercial Transport Academy and CVLC Communication.
“A small investment in your employees’ well-being can lead to big returns. By supporting their health and mindset, you help them build resilience, take ownership of their careers, and stay engaged—ultimately driving productivity, retention, and your bottom-line earnings. By attending the Symposium, you have the power to transform the way your drivers view their health, work, and lives—and in turn, strengthen your business,” concludes SaferStops Association CEO, Nicci Scott-Anderson.
Registration for the two-day 2025 Truck Driver Safety and Wellness Symposium is now open. For more information or to register, please visit www.tdsw.co.za
ENDS
