Some of the UAE’s biggest commercial vehicles suppliers have teamed up to provide truck drivers in Abu Dhabi with the essential tools and training they need to prevent the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
Japan’s UD Trucks, Bridgestone and Abu Dhabi conglomerate – Al Masaood Group said they wanted to launch the ‘Serving our Heroes’ CSR initiative to highlight the importance of health and hygiene practices. Working in cooperation with Abu Dhabi Ports, they have recently distributed safety kits to over 900 truck drivers across various truck rest areas in the emirate of Abu Dhabi, including Khalifa Port.
Inside the kits are N95 masks, gloves, hand sanitisers and wet wipes to “protect truck drivers during these times”, they explained in a statement: “The campaign looked towards paying tribute to the important role that truck drivers play in our lives – devoting long hours to ensure the delivery of goods and commodities across the country even in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.”
Mourad Hedna, president, UD Trucks Middle East, added: “UD Trucks understands the important role played by all truck drivers in the country. Every year, around 3,000 HD & MD trucks are sold in the UAE, with the heavy-duty trucks alone making up 6% of the total road traffic (cars and light commercial vehicles included). In the UAE, logistics is the lifeblood of our society. As the world continues to face these extraordinary times, these brave men are on the road every day to make sure that basic goods are delivered on time. We believe that this campaign is an important initiative that can help serve our community and honour the front-liners who were continuously on the roads even when cities were locked down.”
Stefano Sanchini, regional managing director, Bridgestone, said the ‘Serving our Heroes’ CSR campaign reflects his company’s belief in serving society with superior quality.
“For many years now, Bridgestone has been an advocate for health and safety – a value that is highlighted in the quality of our products,” he said. ” This is a highly significant campaign as it helps in ensuring that truck drivers are aware of their health condition and can take adequate preventative measures to ensure their own well-being.”
“In this period of unprecedented global disruption, Al Masaood is endeavouring to play its part to support the community in any way and assure business continuity as a key pillar,” said Ahmed Rahma Al Masaood, vice chairman, Al Masaood. “The launch of the ‘Serving our Heroes’ campaign, demonstrates our recognition of the key contributions of truck drivers by making them aware about the significance of health and hygiene practices in the move to curb the spread of COVID-19. This CSR initiative reflects our continuing support for the government’s efforts to preserve the welfare of the community.”
