Former Bloemfontein taxi driver Sandile Sitsholwana named Shoprite’s truck driver of the year

In a remarkable achievement that shines a spotlight on excellence within the transport industry, Sandile Sitsholwana, a 33-year-old truck driver from Botshabelo in the Free State, has been awarded the Shoprite Group's 2025 Driver of the Year.

Outshining 1,658 competitors from South Africa and neighbouring countries, Sitsholwana's victory marks him as the first ever winner from Bloemfontein in the competition's 13-year history.

The grand finale, held in Cape Town, showcased the top 13 finalists who competed in a day of rigorous assessments, combining practical skills tests with a challenging written exam.

This competition is not merely about speed or skill behind the wheel; it necessitates a deep understanding of road rules, vehicle classifications, and adherence to company policies, all of which are evaluated under the watchful eyes of national safety authorities.

Reflecting on his journey, Sitsholwana said, “I started out as a taxi driver in 2013. I’ve always loved driving – the travelling, meeting new people, and experiencing our beautiful country through its road network.” His dedication to his craft and commitment to safety serve as invaluable lessons for young aspiring drivers.

“My advice to young drivers? Work hard, be punctual, stay calm and patient. A good attitude goes a long way behind the wheel,” he advised.

Expressing gratitude soon after his win, he thanked Shoprite for providing a platform to test skills and learn from peers.

The Driver of the Year competition exemplifies the Group's unwavering commitment to road safety, operational excellence, and driver development—a vital aspect of a transport operation that is continuously expanding in scale and complexity.

Over the past year alone, Shoprite’s transport division has achieved significant milestones, completing more than 900,000 deliveries.

At the heart of this operation lies a steadfast focus on safety and wellness. With a fleet of 1,078 trucks fitted with state-of-the-art fatigue management systems—including real-time facial recognition technology and in-cab alerts—the Group aims to mitigate fatigue-related incidents.

Additionally, the initiative emphasizes extensive driver training, with over 28,000 hours dedicated to providing essential education across numerous sessions covering defensive driving and fleet safety protocols.

The wellness of drivers remains a priority, with initiatives such as subsidised consultations with registered dietitians to ensure they stay healthy and fit to meet the demands of the road.

Andrew Havinga, Chief Supply Chain Officer at Shoprite, highlighted the importance of investing in people like Sitsholwana, stating, “In a world where road safety is paramount, driver training and readiness play a crucial role in ensuring our roads are safe for everyone. Our investment in people like Sandile is an investment in a safer, more professional fleet – and ultimately, a safer South Africa.”

For Sitsholwana, this award transcends personal achievement.

“This win is not just mine. It belongs to my family, my community, and every driver who believes in doing things the right way. I hope my story inspires others to push forward, stay focused, and never stop learning,” he remarked, embodying a message of perseverance and community spirit.

BUSINESS REPORT