Steering Towards Safety in Mozambique with HGV Driving Training
In Mozambique, a transformative road safety initiative has significantly elevated the professional standards of heavy goods vehicle (HGV) drivers, thanks to the collaborative efforts of several international bodies.
This initiative, supported by Transaid and part of the Employment and Skills for Development in Africa (E4D) programme, implemented by GIZ and funded by the German and Norwegian governments, has made a noteworthy impact over the past two years.
Transformative Training and Its Impact
Over a span of two years, more than 450 HGV drivers have been trained under this initiative, with a remarkable success rate. A comprehensive survey among these drivers revealed that an overwhelming 100 percent believe the training has substantially improved their professional capabilities. This feedback underscores the effectiveness of the training modules and the positive changes they have brought to the drivers’ daily operations.
The project set ambitious goals and far exceeded initial expectations. Initially aiming to enhance the skill set of a handful of driver trainers, the project managed to train 31 driver trainers, which is more than triple the initial target. Notably, this group included two women, marking a significant step towards inclusivity in this sector. These trainers then went on to provide high-quality training to 452 HGV drivers, laying a strong foundation for ongoing education and safety on the roads.
A Closer Look at the Training Courses
The training curriculum was meticulously designed to cater to the pressing needs of HGV drivers, with a focus on sustainable practices. The courses offered were:
- Cargo Transport Safety: A course dedicated to ensuring that drivers understand how to transport cargo securely and efficiently.
- Defensive Driving (Two Parts): These courses were tailored to teach drivers how to anticipate and avoid hazards on the road through a blend of theoretical classroom instruction and practical on-road training.
These courses received high praise from both the drivers and their employers. A spokesperson from one of the beneficiary companies highlighted the relevance of the training, saying, “The material was well cultivated to match feedback from local technical committee members to ensure that the instruction matched what was most needed.”
Moreover, a representative from Usalama, a local driving school involved in the project, noted: “We have been able to better establish ourselves in the market with our clients, especially large suppliers for whom road safety is paramount.”
The National Authority for Professional Education is currently working to combine these three courses into one registered course. Meanwhile, training institutions and driving schools are actively promoting this new training to drivers and businesses, ensuring that the benefits of this project reach a wider audience.
Driver Feedback and Future Directions
The impact of the training is most vividly seen in the feedback from the drivers themselves. One driver shared his experience, stating: “I am now more cautious on the public road. I fully comply with the traffic rules, and I really feel like a professional, capable of seeing and analysing what is happening around me better than before.”
This sentiment is echoed across the board, with drivers expressing newfound confidence and professionalism after completing their training. This personal growth is a testament to the project’s success in not only enhancing driving skills but also in fostering a culture of safety and responsibility.
Vision for the Future
Reflecting on the project’s success, Caroline Barber, Chief Executive of Transaid, remarked: “Prior to this project, professional HGV driver training was limited in Mozambique, with no set standard, and largely focused on rapid acquisition of driving permits. Drivers tended to be reliant on peer-to-peer or self-learning methods, with little formal driver training available.”
She continued: “To launch this project and surpass our training goal is a fantastic achievement for everyone involved – and we’re confident that the programme will continue to help Mozambique’s drivers to be safer on the road.”
Conclusion
The Mozambique road safety project is a shining example of what can be achieved with focused efforts and international cooperation. By enhancing the skills of HGV drivers, the project not only improves individual livelihoods but also contributes to broader road safety for all users. The success of this initiative serves as a blueprint for similar programmes worldwide, aiming to reduce road accidents and create a safer driving environment.
As this project moves forward, the continued support from organizations like Transaid, GIZ, and various government bodies will be crucial in sustaining and expanding these improvements. The future looks promising, and with ongoing commitment, the roads of Mozambique will become increasingly safer for everyone.
