Vivo Energy on Thursday (2 November) rolled out a comprehensive wellness campaign in Accra with the aim of encouraging healthier lifestyles among commercial drivers.
The ‘Fit2Drive’ wellness program among others seeks to promote and enhance the physical and mental well-being of commercial drivers, ensuring they maintain optimal health and safety standards while on the road.
According to Vivo Energy, investing in the wellness of drivers is fundamental in promoting road safety. By focusing on physical fitness, mental well-being, and overall health, they believe to create a community of safer and healthier drivers.
Speaking on behalf of Kader Maiga, managing director of Vivo Energy Ghana, Joseph Kankam, HSSEQ Manager of Vivo Energy, stated that, the ‘Fit2Drive’ wellness program is a comprehensive program that includes health screening, fitness training, educational seminars among others with the sole aim of promoting a culture of holistic wellness among drivers.
“By promoting a culture of holistic wellness through the Fit2Drive wellness program, we hope to instil a sense of responsibility and awareness among commercial drivers. Through this program we aim to reduce the risks associated with fatigue, stress, and other health-related factors that could compromise the safety of our roads.
“Beyond the screening, advocacy and education, the company as part of the Fit2Drive wellness program will liaise with the transport unions to organize fitness sessions for drivers at selected bus terminals. These sessions will help to enhance drivers’ physical and mental well-being, reducing the risk of accidents caused by fatigue or health-related issues,”he said.
He added that, ” additionally, promoting healthy lifestyles through fitness sessions can contribute to long-term wellness, reducing the likelihood of chronic health conditions that may impair driving abilities and to enable drivers be more responsive and resilient on the road.”
Superintendent Joseph Appiah, the deputy head of the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) in Greater Accra, mentioned that, in addition to their duty of ensuring drivers comply with road safety regulations, they also focus on ensuring that drivers maintain physical fitness and alertness while on the road. He further inspired drivers to stay attuned to their own well-being.
“We, the police, serve as your initial point of contact on the road, functioning as your first line of defense. When a police officer stops you to inspect your license and requests that you exit your vehicle, our primary objective is to confirm your physical fitness and mental well-being, ensuring your capability to care for your passengers.
“As a driver, your fitness is crucial, as the prosperity of a nation relies on its transportation sector. If drivers were excluded from the equation, national development would be hindered. Therefore, it’s essential for drivers to prioritize sufficient rest and regular check-ups to maintain their well-being,” he emphasized.
Dr. Elvis Kumah Forson, representing Nexus Health Network, a partner of the ‘Fit2Drive’ initiative, underscored the importance of driver health awareness, particularly regarding hypertension. He stated that, approximately 25% of individuals succumb to hypertension-related issues.
He stressed that drivers should be vigilant about their hypertension status to prevent unforeseen health issues while on the road, ensuring both road safety and an extended, healthier life.
Ebenezer Ayensu, Vivo Energy’s brand manager, highlighted the Shell Loyalty Club’s health insurance program, offering drivers and their families peace of mind during emergencies.
“By joining the Shell Loyalty Club, you receive these offers through our partnership with Hollard Insurance and Allianz Ghana. Also, you are not only securing your rewards but also prioritizing your perianal hematoma and that of your family,” he noted.
Unveiling the plaque to launch the program were representatives from the National Road Safety Authority, Ghana Red Cross Society, Ghana National Fire Service, Nexus Health Network, Ghana Health Service, Motor Traffic and Transport Department, Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority, and Transport Unions.
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