How a Woman is Defying the Odds in the Male-Dominated Truck Driving Profession

Summary:

• Sumayiya Mbabazi, was one of the first women to drive long distance fuel tankers in the country; a childhood dream that came to pass when she met a man who was willing to train her. There was one condition, though, she had to become his wife.

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KASESE, (Examiner) – Truck driving, traditionally dominated by men, presents significant challenges for women attempting to break into the profession. However, studies have shown that women drivers exhibit more compliance with traffic laws, are cautious, and take fewer risks on the road.

Meet Sumaya Mbabazi, a 44-year-old truck driver for Hima Cement Limited, who defies stereotypes with her cautious approach to driving. “I drive at 80 kilometers per hour, following company rules,” she explains. “I prioritize safety over distractions like music or phone calls, as driving demands full attention.”

Her appearance is also a testament to her unique style. Formerly a tomboy, she now adorns herself in an elegant navy blue attire complemented by gold jewelry, a peach veil, and brown nail polish, challenging the conventional image of a truck driver.

Mbabazi’s journey into truck driving began in 2004 when she approached a male fuel tanker driver for FuelX Uganda Limited to teach her. “He agreed to teach me under one condition – that I become his wife,” she recalls. Despite the unconventional arrangement, she mastered the skill within two months and began her career as a fuel tanker driver.

“I was the only female driver among male counterparts, but I was passionate about my job,” Mbabazi reflects. However, her marriage suffered due to the demands of her profession. “My husband struggled to trust me when I was on the road,” she reveals. “Eventually, I chose to prioritize my career and ended the marriage.”

With her marriage over, she transitioned to a bus company, where she worked for a period before joining Hima Cement in 2016. Initially, she was the lone female driver at the company, but now, over 50% of the drivers are women. “Hima Cement provides comprehensive safety training for its drivers, equipping them with the skills to handle challenges on the road” she said.

“I can do simple things on the road like changing tires, bolts, and nuts, and fixing the radiator,” Mbabazi explains, demonstrating her versatility and competence in her role. However, navigating treacherous roads remains her primary challenge.

Despite the obstacles she faces, one event stands out in Mbabazi’s memory – an accident in 2012 while driving a trailer for The Wild Food Program. In a tragic collision, a Kenyan driver veered into her lane, resulting in his immediate death. Though she sustained minor injuries, she remained resilient, continuing her journey to Kampala after transferring the cargo to another trailer.

Reflecting on her journey, Babasi acknowledges the blessings she has encountered amidst the challenges. “I have made friends and connections and achieved fame,” she says proudly. “I have built my own house and can take care of my children and parents.”

Her husband eventually returned to her, and together, they strive to maintain a happy family life. “We talked about it and agreed that we have to work to take care of our children,” she shares. “When I have time, I find him where he is, and if he has time, he comes to me wherever I am.”

As a mother of two – a son who completed senior six last year and a daughter in primary 3 – Mbabazi plans to retire in two years. “My son takes up most of my money,” she laughs. “But when he completes university, I will retire and start a small business to take care of my young daughter’s future education”

Today, Mbabazi encourages other women to pursue careers in male-dominated fields. “There’s no easy job out there, but with determination and courage, anything is possible,” she asserts.

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