16 Sep 2020

Although drivers risked their lives by crossing borders to collect goods in high risk countries, they faced stigmatization upon return,  Business Botswana transport sector chairman Mr Bobby Tlhabiwe has complained.

Briefing the media in Gaborone on enhancing the sector strategies during COVID-19 Tuesday, Mr Tlhabiwe said just like other front liners, drivers were equally important because they ensured that essentials such as medicine and food were available locally.

“Give drivers the status of front line staff and stop the stigma because they are true fighters who risk their lives daily,” he said.

   Stressing the importance of the transport sector in keeping the economy alive especially during the challenging COVID-19 period, Mr Tlhabiwe said without it, the local economy could be experiencing serious challenges.

He pointed out that the country continued to get most of the essentials from across the border, made possible by the transport sector ranging from rail, road and air, making them the backbone of many businesses.

The chairman said the sector managed to soldier  on in spite of challenges brought about by the strict COVID-19 regulations.

Ever since the COVID-19 pandemic hit the country, the sector struggled and lost a lot of business because of delays  experienced at the borders, he said. 

Mr Tlhabiwe said the sector was working on ways that would ensure it delivered on its mandate timely in the face of the negative impact of delays that came with health protocols.

Citing the quarantining of drivers for lengthy periods,  Mr Tlhabiwe said the requirement did not only delay delivery of goods but also defeated the good intentions of fighting the disease by keeping them in one place while either waiting for results and to be tested.

As a remedial measure, he suggested that local labs be accredited to enable them to carry out tests to speed up the process which would ultimately reduce the waiting period.

Furthermore, he said the sector  was considering going digital to allow customers to book and pay online.

On the issue of police having to escort truck drivers from the borders to their various destinations, Mr Tlhabiwe said discussions with private security companies who could do the job more effectively and timeously.

  He urged the transport sector to always have a plan in place adding that there was need to have a business continuity strategy. ends