Women in the freight industry in the Western Cape region are recognized and celebrated by the government for their strength and contributions.
The Western Cape Mobility Department recently hosted a special event on 5 August 2025 to appreciate and recognise the critical role of women in the freight industry. This event was part of the Freight Focus Month campaign and aligned with Women’s Month, highlighting women's dual contributions as professional freight drivers and as emotional anchors for families during the extended periods drivers spend on the road.
The recognition emphasised that freight is fundamental to the provincial and national economies, transporting essential goods such as food, fuel, medicine, and clothing. Despite this, many drivers and their families often feel underappreciated because of the sacrifices involved, such as missing important life events like birthdays and graduations.
Key speaker, Mobility Minister Isaac Sileku, acknowledged women’s “weight of sacrifice and service” in keeping the Western Cape moving, underscoring their indispensable role both on the road and at home. The event conveyed deep gratitude toward women who power the freight industry, symbolising a broader community support and valuing their contributions.
Lauryn Rhodenburg, a freight truck driver, was proud to be part of the change that encourages more women to join freight transport. She considers driving a truck as a passion and believes that women bring a unique strength to the industry. Sanshia Witbooi, a wife of a truck driver, commented that being a truck driver's wife is a unique journey. She further stated that the event reminded her that they are part of a bigger community that values and supports the role of women.
Sanshia also mentioned that she has learned to appreciate the long hours, dedication, and challenges her partner faces on the road. Lauryn Rhodenburg expressed sincere recognition for the contributions of women in the freight industry, whether they are drivers or partners. The Freight Focus Month campaign continues to encourage all Western Cape residents to show appreciation for the people who make freight possible.
The event was a gesture of gratitude to the women in the freight industry, whether they are behind the wheel or managing things at home. Behind every truck driver's long journey is a woman who holds the home together, offering strength, love, and unwavering support. The Western Cape Mobility Department's event was a formal acknowledgment and celebration of women’s roles in the freight industry, emphasising both their professional and familial contributions as essential to the sector's ongoing success and stability.
- The transport industry plays a significant role in the business sector and the economy, as it transports essential goods like food, fuel, medicine, and clothing.
- During Freight Focus Month, which aligns with Women’s Month, the Western Cape Mobility Department recognized and appreciated the critical contribution of women in the freight industry.
- Minister Isaac Sileku, the key speaker, highlighted women's dual role as emotional anchors for families and professional drivers, emphasizing their indispensable role in both the workplace and home.
- Lauryn Rhodenburg, a freight truck driver, is proud to be part of a movement that encourages more women to join the freight transport business, considering driving a truck her passion.
- Sanshia Witbooi, a wife of a truck driver, expressed appreciation for the event, reminding her that they are part of a bigger community that values and supports the role of women in the home-and-garden and relationships aspects of life.
- The automotive industry benefits from the unique strength that women bring, as demonstrated by Lauryn Rhodenburg, with her commitment to supporting women's health and workplace-wellness in the transport sector.
- The Freight Focus Month campaign continues to inspire all Western Cape residents to show appreciation for the people who contribute to the success and stability of the transport industry, including family members who support their loved ones in the sector.
