On Thursday, 31st October 2024, a groundbreaking motorbike safety training program was launched at Sandy’s Creation in Lusaka, Zambia. This initiative, organized by the Zambia Road Safety Trust (ZRST) in collaboration with Zambia Breweries (ZB) and supported by the ABInBev Foundation, marks a significant step towards enhancing road safety for delivery service companies across the nation.
YANGO Delivery, is a part of Yango Group, a global tech company that provides digital solutions for everyday city life is a leading Express Delivery and Courier Service provider in Lusaka, Zambia and has a so many motorbike riders affiliated to them. In recent years, Lusaka, Zambia, has seen a significant increase in the use of motorbikes, particularly within the courier and delivery sectors. This surge is largely driven by the growing demand for fast, efficient, and affordable delivery services, especially in urban areas where traffic congestion can cause delays for traditional vehicles. Motorbikes are able to navigate through busy streets more easily, offering a quicker alternative for delivering goods such as food, parcels, and groceries. This trend has been accelerated by the rise of online shopping and food delivery platforms, which rely on motorbikes to meet the growing demand for on-time deliveries. As a result, motorbikes have become a key component of the delivery infrastructure in Lusaka, contributing to increased convenience for consumers but also raising concerns around road safety and regulation.
The event attracted over 200 enthusiastic motorbike riders who participated in critical training sessions designed to improve road safety practices. The program, which ran the whole day, culminated in an awards ceremony recognizing top performing couriers of it’s delivery partners that demonstrated exemplary commitment to safe driving standards. The highlight of the day was the awarding of an electric motorcycle to one dedicated rider, acknowledging their outstanding efforts in promoting safe riding.
The success of this training initiative was bolstered by the contributions of Yango, a prominent partner in the event. Yango generously provided essential safety gear, including helmets and reflective jackets, ensuring that all participants were equipped to prioritize their safety on the roads. Additionally, Yango sponsored the awards ceremony, fostering a culture of safety among motorbike riders in Zambia.
The event was honored by the presence of several distinguished dignitaries, including: Engineer Allen Mate, Chairman of the Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA); Daniel Mwamba, Chairman of ZRST; Superintendent Paul Silokwa, representing the Zambia Police; Tawanda Hojane, Director of Legal and Corporate Affairs at Zambia Breweries; Dennis Aremo, General Manager of Yango; Hope Khumalo, Director of the Zambia School of Driving.
Throughout the day, participants engaged in various training sessions that covered essential safety topics. These included the importance of wearing helmets, defensive driving techniques, and vehicle maintenance practices. By equipping riders with vital skills and knowledge, the program aims to reduce road incidents and enhance the overall safety of delivery services in Zambia.
This initiative not only addresses the immediate needs of motorbike riders but also aims to create a long-lasting culture of safety on Zambian roads. The collaborative efforts of ZRST, ZB, Yango, and other stakeholders highlight the importance of community involvement in fostering safer road environments.
The launch of Zambia’s first motorbike safety training program is a pivotal moment for road safety in the country. By empowering riders with the necessary training and resources, this initiative is expected to significantly improve road safety standards among delivery service companies. As the program unfolds, it sets a precedent for similar initiatives in the future, ultimately contributing to a safer and more responsible riding culture in Zambia.