Kenyan Workers to Fill Vacant Truck Driving Positions in Central Nebraska

The global shortage of truck drivers has become a pressing issue that significantly impacts the efficient movement of goods and services worldwide.

This challenge affects numerous countries, and as Nebraska Secretary of State Bob Evnen aptly points out, there are tens of thousands of unfilled truck driving positions at any given time. However, recent collaborative efforts between the global workforce and Kenya aim to tackle this problem head-on. According to the 2023 Global Freight Driver Shortage Report by the International Road Transport Union (IRU), over 3 million truck driver positions remain vacant across the 36 countries studied. This shortage is projected to double by 2028 if decisive action is not taken.

One of the primary factors contributing to this crisis is the growing age gap in driver demographics. The ageing workforce poses a significant challenge, with the average age of commercial truck drivers being 46 years old, and a substantial portion of them approaching retirement age. Europe, in particular, faces the highest average driver age at 47 years, with a third of its driver population being over 55 years old. Additionally, the share of drivers under 25 remains low, accounting for only 12% or less of the workforce in most regions.

Although China and Uzbekistan have slightly higher shares of young drivers at 17% and 25%, respectively, the profession still attracts fewer young people compared to other sectors. Furthermore, there is a significant gender disparity in the industry, with less than 6% of truck drivers being women globally, and the United States having a slightly higher share at 8%. To address this issue, Kenya has taken a collaborative approach. Grand Island Express, a facility in Nebraska, is actively participating in the solution by employing over 20 Kenyan truck drivers with green card sponsorships, and an additional 60 Kenyans are currently in the process of obtaining green cards.

It is important to note that these immigrants are not taking jobs away from local workers; instead, they are filling critical positions that would otherwise remain vacant. During a recent visit, Kenya's Principal Secretary Roseline Njogu led the Kenyan delegation and observed remarkable similarities between Nebraska and Kenya. She emphasized that when individuals bring their full selves to the workplace, giving 100% or even 120%, it has a positive impact on productivity and teamwork. These shared values, which transcend geographical boundaries, create a strong foundation for collaboration between the two countries.