Vivo Energy Celebrates North Rift Mechanics in Eldoret Wellness Day

By Wasike Elvis 

 More than 100 mechanics from across the North Rift region gathered in Eldoret on Sunday as Vivo Energy Kenya hosted its second annual Mechanics Wellness Day, an initiative aimed at recognising the critical role mechanics play in keeping Kenya's transport, agriculture, manufacturing and construction sectors running while promoting their health, safety and professional growth.

Held under the theme "Celebrating the People Behind Kenya's Mobility Ecosystem," the event brought together mechanics, healthcare professionals, industry partners and families for a day of wellness activities, sports competitions, networking and recognition.

The initiative underscored the often-overlooked contribution mechanics make to the country's economy by ensuring vehicles, machinery and equipment remain safe, reliable and efficient.

From repairing tractors that prepare farms for planting to servicing trucks transporting produce to markets, buses connecting towns and villages, construction equipment and family vehicles, mechanics form a vital link in Kenya's mobility chain. Their expertise ensures businesses continue operating, farmers deliver produce on time, industries maintain production and millions of Kenyans travel safely every day.

Speaking during the event, Vivo Energy Kenya Lubricants and LPG Sales and Marketing Manager Stephen Gikonyo said the company had organised the event to appreciate the professionals whose work keeps the nation moving despite receiving little public recognition.

He noted that mechanics are the silent force behind every successful journey, every efficient transport system and every productive farming season, adding that their contribution extends far beyond vehicle repairs.

Gikonyo said Vivo Energy Kenya, through Shell Lubricants, remains committed to standing with mechanics by providing not only world-class lubrication solutions but also technical training, product knowledge, safety education and wellness programmes designed to improve their livelihoods and strengthen their businesses.

He said the company believes mechanics deserve reliable partners who invest in their success, adding that the annual wellness event demonstrates Vivo Energy Kenya's long-term commitment to supporting the people who form the backbone of the country's mobility ecosystem.

The company said the wellness programme is part of its broader strategy of investing in mechanics beyond the workshop by promoting better health, enhancing technical skills and creating opportunities for professional development.

Vivo Energy Kenya has continued working closely with mechanics through regular training sessions that equip them with modern automotive technologies, best maintenance practices and product knowledge to help workshops deliver quality services while building customer confidence.

As trusted advisers to motorists, mechanics also play an important role in helping vehicle owners make informed maintenance decisions, improve engine performance, extend vehicle lifespan and reduce operating costs through the use of high-quality lubricants.

The Eldoret event combined health and recreation to encourage a balanced lifestyle among mechanics, whose work is often physically demanding and conducted under challenging conditions.

Participants took part in football matches, pool and darts competitions, indoor games and team-building activities before undergoing comprehensive health screening conducted by medical professionals.

Healthcare providers from Equity Afya offered free medical services, including general health assessments, counselling and wellness advice aimed at encouraging early detection and prevention of lifestyle and occupational illnesses.

Speaking during the event, Equity Afya representative Ezra Omwancha highlighted the unique health risks associated with the mechanical profession, noting that many mechanics spend long hours working in confined spaces while lifting heavy equipment and handling machinery that exposes them to physical strain.

He said such occupational hazards make regular medical check-ups essential to ensure mechanics remain healthy and productive throughout their careers.

Omwancha added that wellness initiatives targeting mechanics are important because good health enables them to continue supporting Kenya's transport, industrial and agricultural sectors, which are key pillars of the country's economy.

Beyond the health activities, the event also offered mechanics an opportunity to interact with colleagues from different parts of the North Rift, exchange experiences, strengthen professional relationships and spend time with their families in a relaxed environment away from their busy workshops.

The celebrations concluded with an awards ceremony where winners of the various sporting and recreational competitions were recognised for their outstanding performances, bringing the day to a festive close.

Vivo Energy Kenya said it will continue expanding programmes that promote the welfare, recognition and professional development of mechanics across the country as part of its commitment to building a stronger and more sustainable mobility ecosystem.

The company noted that investing in mechanics ultimately translates into safer roads, improved transport efficiency, better-performing vehicles and stronger economic growth, reaffirming that the professionals working behind the scenes remain indispensable to Kenya's development.