Afrika Mashariki Transport Awards partners with NMG for second year
The Afrika Mashariki Awards (AMTA), an initiative of the Ministry of Transport with the Nation Media Group as one of the partners is back for the second edition.
AMTA wants to return to normalcy on the roads through awards that motivate commercial vehicles to operate in compliance with traffic laws.
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Speaking on Tuesday during the launch and unveiling of the nominees for the 2nd edition of the AMTA awards, Mr Meshack Edgar Obota who is the founder of the awards said that the stakeholders of commercial vehicles, especially the passenger service ones should comply with the traffic rules, which will in turn assure passengers of their safety.
“Gathering every year for AMTA is our way of celebrating excellence in the transport sector, recognizing good behaviours on the road, all as part of our 5-year strategy,” he said.
Matatu operators in the country have for long been accused of flouting traffic rules which has led to high cases of deaths on the road and the organisers want to use these awards as a tool to correct this.
“Matatus often bear the blame for road nuisances. But it’s important to note that the association operates in 42 counties, and in collaboration with AMTA, we’re dedicated to amplifying road safety awareness,” said Matatu Owners Association CEO, Ms. Patricia Mutheu.
NMG’s Team Leader, Ms. Lisa Owiti urged everyone to embrace the journey in celebrating the progress in this sector.
“With the support of every industry player, we’re on track to make this year’s event a success. At AMTA, we dream of transportation that knows no bounds,” she said.
Afrika Mashariki Transport Awards is the first of its kind in Kenya and East Africa, celebrating excellence in the transport industry. The Award will be preceded by a nomination/media night and a three-day Transport Expo.
The transport expo will start on Wednesday before culminating in a gala night next month.
The award will be given to the transport companies that have exceeded the expectations of passengers in terms of service.
According to the organizers who include private firms as well as various government agencies in the sector, among them the National Transport and Safety Authority, Kenya Ports Authority, and Kenya Civil Aviation Authority transport is the most important aspect of our daily lives.
“Transport is one of the most important aspects of our daily lives, whether it’s arriving at work or school on time or receiving vital deliveries,” the organizers said in a brief.
Just like last year, this year’s award will only feature Kenyan companies but going forward it will be extended to other East African countries.
“This year we are focusing on Kenya but these are awards that will be extended regionally in the coming years,” they said.