FOCUS named official Fleet Safety Awards partner

FOCUS on Transport & Logistics has been appointed the official media partner to the Fleet Safety Awards, reinforcing the publication’s long-standing commitment to making the country’s roads safer.

Run by MasterDrive, the Fleet Safety Awards have grown into a national platform that recognises organisations, fleet managers, and professional drivers who raise the bar on safety performance across Southern Africa. The 2025 edition takes place on 29 October at Gallagher Convention Centre, with categories spanning best fleet manager, best organisation, driver excellence, and sustainability leadership.

For FOCUS, the partnership is about celebrating the champions of fleet safety. “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,” says Charleen Clarke, editorial director of FOCUS.

The magazine’s collaboration with the Fleet Safety Awards is also about making the roads safer for drivers. “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. Hence, their profession is extremely hazardous and, sometimes, the requirements placed on drivers are utterly outrageous,” explains Clarke. “In our most recent issue, we have an article on a truck driver who annoyed his boss intensely. The driver was on the road for 18 hours without sleeping, instead of the 20 expected of him! We need to make some massive changes within the fleets in South Africa, because we would really like to see more truck drivers returning 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,” he says. “The magazine shines a spotlight on the fleets and people who are making a difference when it comes to making our roads safer.”

The value exchange is clear. As an official media partner, FOCUS will provide sustained editorial coverage before, during, and after the event – profiling finalists and winners, unpacking the judging lens, and discussing pertinent topics such as telematics insights and the impact of proper maintenance. In turn, the awards offer structured access to judges and exclusive safety insights emerging from entries and audits.

Herbert notes that the partnership isn’t about marketing gloss. “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,” he says. Clarke agrees: “Safety isn’t a slogan; it’s a value. We’re proud to partner with this initiative because the awards highlight those companies that are truly making a difference in our country.”

By aligning its editorial muscle with a respected national programme, FOCUS aims to keep safety at the top of the industry agenda – turning isolated success stories into sector norms while giving fleets practical tools to protect drivers, assets, and the public. “Most importantly, we are partnering with the awards in order to save lives. If we can only save one life (although I believe we can save far more), this initiative is well worth it,” concludes Clarke.

• The Fleet Safety Awards has two official media partners. The other media partner is the sister publication of FOCUS, namely SHEQ Management – South Africa’s leading safety, health, environmental, and quality publication.