Keeping commuters safe requires more than responsible driving. It takes consistent training, strong operational standards and a commitment to putting passenger safety first. These are the principles that underpin the commuter transport industry and why recognising excellence through initiatives such as the Hollard Highway Heroes (HHH) competition is so important.
As the centre of excellence for commuter transport under the Hollard umbrella, Clarendon Transport Underwriting Managers (CTU) is proud to sponsor the Bus section of Hollard Highway Heroes, celebrating the professional drivers and industry leaders who help make South Africa’s roads safer.
The competition provides an opportunity to recognise the people behind the daily movement of thousands of commuters, while encouraging higher standards of professionalism, accountability and road safety across the sector. For CTU, this involvement also creates a platform to champion the importance of safe, well-managed commuter transport and reinforce the role it plays in protecting passengers and strengthening the industry.
Among those recognised through the competition is Oscar Mashaba, Fleet Manager at BUSCOR and recipient of the Fleet Manager Award. His recognition highlights the importance of effective fleet management in creating an environment where safety is built into everyday operations.
“At BUSCOR, safety isn’t just policy. It’s part of our culture,” says Oscar.
For him, that culture starts long before a driver gets behind the wheel. Ongoing training, defensive driving education and strong operational standards all contribute to ensuring that drivers remain alert, professional and equipped to make responsible decisions on the road.
“Our drivers are continuously trained to remain professional and alert at all times. Driving safely and defensively helps prevent accidents and protects lives,” he explains.
While training and systems provide the foundation, Oscar believes that a driver’s attitude is equally important.
“Patience is critical. You have to stay calm, stay aware, and remember that every decision you make on the road affects other people.”
It is this combination of operational discipline and individual responsibility that makes recognition programmes such as Hollard Highway Heroes valuable. By celebrating people who demonstrate a commitment to safety, the competition helps bring positive examples to the forefront and encourages others in the industry to maintain the same standards.
For Oscar, winning the Fleet Manager Award was a proud moment and an affirmation of the work being done to prioritise safety.
“Winning made us proud. It told us we’re doing the right thing.”
Through its sponsorship of the Bus section, CTU is helping ensure that commuter transport professionals receive the recognition they deserve, while supporting the broader ambition of Hollard Highway Heroes to encourage safer behaviour on South Africa’s roads.
The partnership reflects CTU’s commitment to advancing excellence in commuter transport under the Hollard umbrella. By shining a light on the people, practices and leadership that contribute to safer journeys, the competition offers an opportunity to celebrate progress and inspire continued improvement across the industry.
For future entrants, Oscar’s advice is simple: consistency matters. The small decisions drivers and fleet teams make every day can have a lasting impact on the safety of the people who depend on them.
