In response to Kenya’s troubling surge in road fatalities, the largest regional automotive assembler, Isuzu East Africa, has launched an initiative to bolster driver safety and well-being.
Dubbed the Driver Wellness Program, the initiative incorporates the provision of free medical and vision screenings for drivers, vehicle safety inspections, advanced driver training, and complimentary access to the Isuzu Connect telematics system.
The auto assembler has partnered with AutoXpress, Bridgestone Tyres, and Lions
FirstSight Hospital. Lions Hospital will provide essential health services for drivers, including eye checkups, ENT evaluations, and blood sugar and blood pressure assessments.
Auto Xpress will offer the necessary medications prescribed during the event, along with conducting a tire clinic to ensure vehicle safety. Isuzu East Africa will conduct Comprehensive health inspections for Isuzu trucks are part of an initiative targeting high-risk drivers, including commercial operators, public service vehicle (PSV) drivers, school bus crews, and logistics fleets.
According to NTSA data, Kenyan roads claimed 4,748 lives in 2024, a nearly 10% rise from the 4,324 recorded in 2023. Speaking during the launch, Isuzu East Africa Chair of the Board & Managing Director Rita Kavashe described road safety as a shared responsibility.
“Isuzu East Africa works with various stakeholders to support this critical cause. We urge both public and private drivers to participate in these wellness and safety programs. Your health and knowledge are key to preventing accidents,” she said, adding: “At Isuzu, our commitment to drivers goes far beyond manufacturing and selling vehicles — we are your partners in maintenance, service, training, and overall wellness.”
“We are happy to partner with Isuzu EA because it allows us to reach our end-user customers. This partnership has worked very well as it is in the third edition, and we will be doing three similar events in different locations around the country this year, targeting over 1,000 drivers,” said AutoXpress MD Sandeep Shah.
“Last time we targeted school bus drivers, and now we are targeting commercial vehicle drivers. Hence, this is an opportunity to connect with drivers and get feedback.” Shah concluded.
“Kenya is the first country in sub-Saharan Africa to have the Eyes on the Road campaign. Our idea, with the help of Isuzu EA and AutoXpress, is to deploy this in the other East African countries in the next years,” said Bridgestone MEAI Giovanni Tolasi.
“This initiative is a great success. We have been very happy with the relationship, grateful for the hospitality in Kenya, and the investment in the safety of our people we are making here.” Tolasi concluded.
Mr Julius Ndegwa, Isuzu EA’s Director of Aftersales and Channel Development, highlighted that, through wellness check-ups, vehicle-maintenance training, and the activation of Isuzu Connect, the company aimed to “empower our drivers with knowledge, tools, and the support they need to drive safely and confi][p7890-]\[]p098765432qweipo[]
?dently. By using genuine spare parts and adopting advanced telematics technology, we can significantly reduce risks, improve efficiency, and prolong vehicle life,” he said.
On July 4th, Isuzu East Africa was recognized at the inaugural AA of Kenya Road Safety Excellence Awards, organized by the Automobile Association of Kenya, NTSA, and supported by the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA).
The company was awarded 1st place in Road Safety Training & Awareness, a recognition of initiatives such as the Isuzu Drivers Academy and safety education programs. Isuzu EA also placed 4th in Driver Safety & Wellness and 4th in Community Engagement. These awards affirm the company’s commitment to protecting lives on Kenyan roads through training, technology, and wellness support.
“Drivers are the movers of our economy, so we want them to get health checks and be fit all the time to spur the economy,” said Kennedy Karisa, Secretary General, Truckers Association of Kenya.
