The UK’s trucking industry is facing a major crisis, with the Road Haulage Association (RHA) warning that the country will need 200,000 new truck drivers over the next five years to maintain supply chain stability.
Meanwhile, across the Southern African Development Community (SADC), many experienced truck drivers are struggling to find opportunities, presenting a potential solution for both regions.
The RHA’s report, Lorry Drivers – the Vital Link – Attracting, Training and Retaining Key Workers in the UK Supply Chain, highlights that 40,000 new drivers will be needed annually to avoid supply chain disruptions.
The UK heavily relies on road transport, with 81% of all freight moving via trucks, including food, medicine, and construction materials.
However, ongoing challenges such as an ageing workforce and retention issues continue to threaten the industry’s future.
Read also | Truck driver shortage across Europe
In contrast, the SADC region has a surplus of skilled truck drivers, particularly in South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Malawi.
Many of these drivers, trained in navigating long-haul routes across challenging terrains, are either unemployed or underpaid.
Given their experience with cross-border freight, hazardous materials, and high-capacity loads, they could be well-suited to filling the UK’s urgent needs.
The UK has previously recruited international drivers, especially during the 2021 supply chain crisis, but restrictive visa policies and high relocation costs have deterred many from applying.
However, if the British government streamlines its work visa process and partners with trucking associations in SADC countries, thousands of qualified drivers could help alleviate the shortage.
“The demand for drivers is there, and SADC drivers are ready to work. The UK government should consider easing visa restrictions and collaborating with African transport sectors to create a win-win situation,” said a South African logistics expert.
As the UK grapples with its trucker crisis, the solution may lie in Africa’s experienced and job-hungry driver workforce.
If recruitment barriers are addressed, SADC truckers could play a key role in keeping Britain’s supply chains running smoothly.
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