By Yussif Ibrahim
Kumasi Oct. 07, GNA – Vivo Energy Ghana, has engaged some drivers in Kumasi as part of the implementation of the second edition of its, “FIT2DRIVE Driver Education and Wellness Programme,” to promote and enhance the physical and mental wellbeing of commercial drivers.
The programme was launched last year by the company and its transporters – S.O. Frimpong, J.K. Hogle, and J.K Ahiadome Transport, as well as the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA).
The campaign, which also seeks to educate drivers on good road safety behaviours and to provide them free occupational health screening by health professionals, targets about 1,000 commercial drivers across five regions this year.
As part of the programme, driver unions in the participating regions are going to be provided thermometers, glucometers, and blood pressure readers to facilitate personal health of drivers, according to Vivo Energy.
The theme chosen for this year’s campaign is, “Your Health, Your Wealth”.
As a major player in the downstream petroleum sector championing and setting standards for safety, innovation and quality, the company remains resolute in its dedication to implementing long-term sustainable development initiatives with a focus on the health of its people.
Mr Jean-Michel Arlandis, the Managing Director of Vivo Energy Ghana, in a speech read on his behalf at the Kumasi event, said the initiative had become more than just a programme, but a movement towards a healthier, safer, and more responsible driving community.
He said the theme for the programme was a constant reminder that the most asset drivers possessed was not just the vehicle they operated, but their health.
“We recognise your profession as the wheel that propels the growth of our economy, ensuring goods and people reach their destinations safely and on time,” he told the drivers.
He, however, pointed out that the demands of their jobs could lead to the neglect of their personal health, hence the programme sought to remind them that maintaining their health was not just a personal responsibility but one in the interest of all.
“By educating ourselves on the importance of health and wellness, we are not only investing in our futures but also in the futures of those who rely on us, our families, communities, and the nation,” he encouraged the drivers.
Mr Kwasi Agyenim Boateng, the Regional Head, NRSA, underscored the importance of drivers prioritising their health due to the nature of their work.
He said the health conditions of drivers was critical to reducing road accidents and commended Vivo Energy and its partners for launching the initiative to tackle the carnage on our roads.
“This is an election year, and the training will enhance the safety of vehicle occupants with respect to the electioneering campaigns during which people will be travelling a lot,” he noted.
He said the safety consciousness of drivers during the period, would have impact on the election and the general well-being of Ghanaians.
Mr Albert Kwasi Boamah, the Chairman of the Sofoline branch of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union, applauded Vivo Energy for the programme, saying the engagement was a revelation because there were certain things they did not know as drivers.
He was hopeful that the training would reflect in the number of accidents on the roads and urged drivers to apply the knowledge acquired in their work.
GNA