However, truck drivers, who play a critical role in facilitating trade, feel sidelined in key policy discussions.  

Despite Africa’s vast resources and growing markets, only 16% of the continent’s total exports are traded within Africa. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) has the potential to create a $3.4 trillion market, but stakeholders argue that for trade to thrive, the role of truck drivers must be acknowledged and protected.  

Marvin Silawule, Acting Head of the Political, Economic, Analysis and Research Business Unit at the Export Credit Insurance Corporation of South Africa, emphasised the need for engagement. “We must know that there's no trade without truck drivers, and 60% of the goods in Africa are transported by road. That’s why we want them to acknowledge that we are here and willing to work together to move our economy forward,” he said.  

Truck drivers have faced increasing challenges, including hijackings, violent attacks, and poor working conditions. “Some of the truckers have had their trucks burned, drivers have been killed or hijacked. We have raised concerns about health and safety, and the overflow of drivers moving between countries,” said Silawule.

Advocacy efforts have been ongoing for several years, with truck drivers pushing for better protections and recognition. “We have been advocating for this issue for five years now. Trade involves human beings who need labour laws and health protections. We have taken this matter to parliament and regional bodies, and we have sent letters to the African Union and the AfCFTA Secretariat,” Silawule added.  

As the African Union summit gets underway in Addis Ababa, truck drivers are calling on leaders to consider their role in the implementation of AfCFTA. “Most of the time, leaders talk about economic growth, but those who transport goods across the continent are sidelined. We don’t have a roadmap for short-, mid-, or long-term support for truck drivers,” the representative said.  

Truck drivers are now pushing for a dedicated forum to address their concerns. “If we can have a Mining Indaba, where 90% of those minerals are transported by truck drivers, then we should also have a Drivers’ Indaba. It’s high time truck drivers are involved. We also wish to have a Driver’s Day, because a radio is a truck driver’s friend, it keeps us informed about what is happening on the road and across Africa.”  

The trucking community is urging policymakers to ensure that drivers receive protections comparable to the goods they transport. “Right now, goods are insured, but the drivers’ lives are not. You can buy a truck, you can insure the load, but you can’t buy the soul of an innocent driver pushing loads on the road,” Silawule said.  

--ChannelAfrica--