UD Trucks Southern Africa Celebrates Driver Excellence at the 2026 Local Extra Mile Challenge

_{^{Kenya’s Farhad Abdurahaman Omar named Quester Ultimate Driver 2026}} 

Zwartkops Raceway | 13 August 2026 – Safe, skilled and responsible driving is at the heart of efficient transport operations, and for UD Trucks, developing and recognising professional drivers is an important part of delivering on its promise of Ultimate Dependability. 

This commitment was brought to life at the 2026 UD Trucks Extra Mile Challenge – SSA Hub Local Competition, held at Zwartkops Raceway in Centurion, where professional drivers from across the region came together to demonstrate their driving skills, vehicle knowledge and commitment to safe and efficient operations. 

The Extra Mile Challenge forms part of UD Trucks’ broader commitment to driver development, including its UD Driver Trainer Programme, which equips professional drivers with practical knowledge and skills to operate their vehicles safely, efficiently and responsibly. Through initiatives such as these, UD Trucks aims to support customers in improving driver performance, vehicle care, fuel efficiency and overall transport productivity. 

Opening the event, Esaia Taunyane, Sales Director at UD Trucks Southern Africa, highlighted the fundamental role that logistics plays in the economy and the people who make it possible. 

“Logistics is the backbone of our economy, connecting businesses, communities and people every day. At the centre of this industry are our professional drivers – the unsung heroes who spend countless hours on the road keeping goods moving and businesses operating. The Extra Mile Challenge gives us an opportunity to recognise these individuals, celebrate their professionalism and shine a spotlight on the important role they play.” 

Professional drivers from across Southern Africa competed in two vehicle categories – UD Quon and UD Quester – putting their skills to the test through a series of practical assessments designed to reflect the demands of real-world transport operations. The competition assessed drivers across key areas including pre-trip vehicle inspection, safe and fuel-efficient driving, vehicle handling and manoeuvring, and overall operational excellence. 

Following the rigorous assessments, two Ultimate Drivers emerged victorious: 

Both winners will now represent the Southern Africa Hub at the 2026 UD Trucks Extra Mile Challenge Global Final, taking place at the UD Experience Center in Ageo, Japan, from 20–22 October 2026, where they will compete against some of the world's leading professional commercial vehicle drivers. 

Graham Kolm, General Manager: SSA Markets at UD Trucks, said the Extra Mile Challenge reflects UD Trucks' focus on supporting customers beyond the vehicle itself. 

“At UD Trucks, we believe that Ultimate Dependability is about more than the truck. It is about the people, the knowledge and the practices that keep transport operations moving safely and efficiently. Our drivers are an essential part of that equation. Through the Extra Mile Challenge and our driver development initiatives, we are investing in the skills and knowledge that help drivers get the most from their vehicles while operating safely and responsibly.” 

The competition also reinforces UD Trucks’ approach to Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), with safe and fuel-efficient driving, correct vehicle inspection and responsible vehicle operation all contributing to improved productivity and lower operating costs for customers. 

Filip Van den Heede, Managing Director at UD Trucks Southern Africa, congratulated all the participants and highlighted the significance of recognising professional drivers.