COMPETE is working with the Kenya Transport Association (KTA) to create the EA HCV (East Africa High Capacity Vehicle) driver’s training school to combat driver error and improve road transport. The school will teach advanced driver training using modern driving simulators that mirror a Renault truck and are priced at nearly $120,000 per unit. COMPETE has supported the purchase of three simulators.

KTA will use the EA HCV driver’s training center of excellence to upgrade the skills of regional cross border heavy commercial vehicle truck drivers. This much needed school will also contribute to the sustainability of the KTA.  Poor driving habits and poor infrastructure are the main causes of the high accident rates on the Northern Corridor. High accident rates increase the cost of insurance and thus the cost of transport on the Northern Corridor. Fatalities have also had a negative impact on the availability of competent drivers, compounding transport challenges along the corridor. A World Health Organization report for the year 2009 on road safety in Kenya indicated that 85% of road accidents occurred due to human error. KTA’s driving school should help reduce transit times across East Africa and reduce the cost of transport along the Northern Corridor.

“The Institute will go a long way in bolstering road safety initiatives across the country and in the region,” said Jane Njeru, Chief Executive Officer of KTA.

The COMPETE grantee KTA is an association of road transporters registered under the Societies Act, Cap.108 (Laws of Kenya).  KTA’s main objective is to instill safety, discipline and professionalism in trucking and to provide a single authoritative voice on issues of importance regarding road transport.