Canada remains one of the top destinations for Kenyan job seekers and the sixth-largest source of remittances to Kenya.

The country’s booming economy and industries are welcoming skilled workers from Kenya to serve in various sectors, including healthcare, IT, skilled trades, agriculture, and education.

Truck driving is one of the most popular jobs in the country and many Kenyan immigrants have excelled greatly, making millions of shillings.

According to sources, truck drivers in Canada earn handsomely due to the high demand for trucking services in the country.

However, compensation varies based on experience, the company, and the type of trucking as well as region, with certain provinces or cities offering higher pay rates due to demand and cost of living factors.

Reportedly, the average salary for a truck driver in Canada is $27.21 per hour. A 40-hour work week translates to an annual income of around $56,600.

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Entry-level or new truck drivers can earn around $48,000 to CAD 58,500 annually. Mid-level or truck drivers with experience can earn between $56,570 CAD and $79,963 CAD per year, depending on the job and region.

Highly experienced truck drivers, especially in long-haul positions, can earn upwards of CAD 67,000 and reach CAD 245,000 annually in specialized roles or with top employers.

The United States is another destination where truck drivers are in high demand with  some of the drivers taking home Sh700,000 per month.

America’s transport system is dominated by monster trucks that transverse the 50 states supplying various goods.

Samuel Mulwa who ventured into truck driving in the US in 2020 says one has to undergo training before being given the green light to drive trucks.

“I joined a trucking school and attended a five-week programme. I paid Sh447,000 and was trained on the basics of the program,” he stated.

He added that upon taking a test, he was required to work with a trainer for a few weeks to help him with some of the basics of driving the truck and techniques not taught in school.

In his first year, Mulwa earned Sh180,000 per week. He notes that the pay is dependent on the experience.

“Definitely is very rewarding. When you drive for five days a week and you get an average of Sh178,000 and after tax that will be around Sh155,000.”