Call for Road Safety as Afrika Mashariki Transport Awards 2024 Launched

The Afrika Mashariki Transport Awards (AMTA) were officially launched in Nairobi, with road safety and adherence to traffic rules taking center stage. The awards, now in their fourth year, aim to celebrate excellence within the transport sector while emphasizing the importance of safety on Kenyan roads. During the launch at the Standard Group PLC headquarters, National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) Deputy Director Duncan Kibogong highlighted that road safety is a collective responsibility, involving not just the government but all road users.

Kibogong expressed concern over the increasing rate of road fatalities and urged motorists to adopt safer practices. He emphasized the importance of being mindful of fellow road users and encouraged the transport sector to continue innovating to enhance safety and service delivery. Kibogong stated that the transport industry is vital to Kenya’s economy, supporting services such as commuting, the delivery of farm produce, and the transportation of manufactured goods. He affirmed NTSA’s commitment to supporting the sector through strategic innovation and improved operational efficiency.

The AMTA, launched in collaboration with partners like Safaricom, Kenya Railways, Kenya Ports Authority, and the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority, provides a platform for the transport industry to showcase innovations. Standard Group PLC, as the official media partner, pledged its continued support for the awards and their goals. Standard Group CEO Marion Gathoga expressed pride in the company’s century-long heritage and its alignment with AMTA’s mission to recognize and promote excellence in the transport industry.

At the event, Afrika Mashariki Transport Awards founder Edgar Meshak stated that the awards serve as a platform for industry professionals to network, raise awareness about road safety, and celebrate talent and achievements in the sector. The awards cover a wide range of categories, recognizing excellence across various segments of the transport industry. These include Motorclub of the Year, Auto Dealer of the Year, Fuel Station of the Year, and Driving School of the Year, among others.

In addition to the awards, a three-day Transport Expo will be held at the Sarit Expo Centre. The exhibition is expected to attract around 10,000 attendees and will serve as a space for industry leaders to exchange ideas and discuss emerging trends and solutions in transportation. Key topics will include the need for innovation in response to urbanization, technological advancements, and the growing demand for environmentally conscious transport solutions.

Meshak also highlighted this year’s awards theme, “Driving Towards a Sustainable and Secure Future: Green Energy and Safety in Transport.” The focus on sustainability and safety underscores the industry’s commitment to addressing environmental concerns while enhancing safety measures. The theme reflects the importance of adapting transport solutions to meet modern challenges, particularly in light of rapid urbanization and the shift towards green energy.

Warren Lamu, co-founder of AMTA, reiterated the need for innovation in the transport industry to meet the evolving demands of society. He emphasized that as urbanization continues, transport solutions must become more efficient, environmentally sustainable, and safer for all. Lamu expressed hope that the awards will leave a lasting impact on future generations, encouraging further development and awareness in the sector.

Past winners of the awards include notable names in the transport industry, such as Renegade Air, which was recognized as Domestic Airline of the Year, Mash East Africa, awarded Long Distance Bus Service of the Year, Super Metro Sacco, which won Matatu Sacco of the Year, and Buzeki Enterprises, awarded Haulier/Logistics Company of the Year.

The AMTA has grown in stature over the years, becoming a key event in the transport industry’s calendar. By focusing on road safety, environmental sustainability, and innovation, the awards play a crucial role in shaping the future of transport in Kenya and beyond. The event not only celebrates achievements but also serves as a call to action for the industry to prioritize safety, sustainability, and innovation in order to reduce road accidents and enhance service delivery.