In a move that reinforces its long-standing commitment to safer roads across Southern Africa, FOCUS on Transport & Logistics has been announced as the official media partner for the 2025 Fleet Safety Awards.
Run by MasterDrive, the Fleet Safety Awards has grown into a national platform recognising organisations, fleet managers, and professional drivers who raise the bar on safety performance. The 2025 edition, set for 29 October, features categories including Best Fleet Manager, Best Organisation, Driver Excellence, and Sustainability Leadership.
For FOCUS, the partnership is about celebrating those who go above and beyond in fleet safety. Charleen Clarke, editorial director of FOCUS, explains:
“While far more needs to be done, there are some companies and individuals that are at the top of their game when it comes to fleet safety. We want to celebrate those road safety champions. We also want to share their stories with our readers: what works, why it works, and how to replicate it.”
Safety on South Africa’s roads remains a pressing concern, particularly for truck drivers who face daily hazards. Clarke highlights the risks drivers encounter:
“We work specifically with truck drivers, and they often take their lives into their own hands when heading out to work. South Africa’s roads are perilous. And sometimes, the requirements placed on drivers are utterly outrageous. In a recent issue, we profiled a truck driver who annoyed his boss simply by resting after 18 hours on the road, instead of the 20 expected of him! Massive changes are needed within our fleets, so that more drivers return home safely.”
Eugene Herbert, CEO of MasterDrive, welcomes the collaboration:
“FOCUS on Transport & Logistics gives the awards a credible voice far beyond a single ceremony. The magazine shines a spotlight on the fleets and people who are making a difference when it comes to road safety.”
The benefits of the partnership are clear. As the official media partner, FOCUS will provide sustained editorial coverage before, during, and after the event. Coverage will include profiles of finalists and winners, insights into the judging process, and discussions on key topics such as telematics and the impact of proper fleet maintenance. In turn, the awards offer structured access to judges and exclusive safety insights emerging from entries and audits.
Herbert emphasises that the partnership goes beyond marketing:
“The awards exist to reduce road fatalities and improve fleet performance. Media coverage that tests claims, demands evidence, and celebrates repeatable results is essential to that mission.”
Clarke adds:
“Safety isn’t a slogan; it’s a value. We’re proud to partner with this initiative because the Fleet Safety Awards highlight those companies that are truly making a difference in our country. Most importantly, we are partnering with the awards in order to save lives. If we can save even one life—and I believe we can save far more—this initiative is well worth it.”
By aligning its editorial expertise with a respected national programme, FOCUS aims to keep safety at the top of the transport and logistics agenda—turning isolated success stories into sector-wide norms while providing fleets with practical tools to protect drivers, assets, and the public.
The Fleet Safety Awards has two official media partners, with FOCUS’s sister publication, SHEQ Management, also on board as a partner to extend the reach of this vital road safety initiative.
