Limpopo’s October Transport Month campaign wrapped up in style with a glittering ceremony at Bolivia Lodge, where the province celebrated its top professional drivers for 2025. The Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety hosted the prestigious Driver of the Year Awards to recognise drivers who have shown outstanding skill, vigilance, and a strong commitment to road safety throughout the competition.
In his opening remarks, Head of Department Mr. Matjena reminded everyone that safety should always take priority over speed.
“Arriving alive is far more important than arriving first,” he said, stressing that professionalism and responsibility on the road are shared duties. He noted that the annual competition is not merely a showcase of talent but an essential platform to promote a culture of safety across Limpopo’s roads.
Drivers were put through their paces with demanding tests on vehicle inspection, precision driving, and compliance with traffic laws. Those who excelled represented the very best in professional driving.
The top performers were rewarded with monetary prizes and hampers for their dedication and achievement. The 2025 category winners are as follows:
- Male Bus Driver: Maphanga T.A.
- Female Bus Driver: Mokgoloboto M.S.
- LDV Driver: Mphaphuli O.
- Rigid Truck Driver: Mdebuka J.
- Female Taxi Driver: Matlou J.
- Male Taxi Driver: Meso P.
Delivering the keynote address, MEC Violet Mathye congratulated the winners and praised all participants for their commitment to excellence. She also applauded the growing participation of women in traditionally male-dominated categories, calling it a positive step toward gender transformation in the public transport sector.
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However, MEC Mathye’s tone turned somber as she reflected on the recent crash that claimed 44 lives. “In light of such tragedies, celebrations cannot overshadow the need for vigilance,” she cautioned.
She urged the winning drivers to become “road safety ambassadors,” using their influence to promote responsible driving among colleagues, private motorists, and pedestrians. The MEC further encouraged passengers to take an active role by discouraging speeding and unsafe behaviour.
MEC Mathye closed her address with a firm reminder that road safety is a collective responsibility shared by drivers, vehicle owners, and the community. She emphasised patience, alertness, and strict adherence to the rules of the road as key to reducing fatalities and serious injuries across the province.
The event ended with a united call for all professional drivers to maintain their high standards and lead by example, inspiring safer driving behaviour and building safer communities throughout Limpopo.
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