Online Reporter
Freeman Razemba in MAZOWE
THE Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe has launched the Heroes and Defence Forces’ Road Safety Campaign in Mazowe.
This initiative seeks to curb reckless driving and enhance road safety during a period known for increased travel.
Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister, Felix Mhona presided over the launch, which was attended by legislators, the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe board chairperson Mr Kura Sibanda, his deputy, Ms Lizwe Bunu, managing director Mr Munesu Munodawafa, national police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi, transport operators, senior government officials and various stakeholders.
Running under the theme, “Be patient or you could end up a patient in hospital”, the campaign seeks to promote responsible road user behaviour, strengthen enforcement, and encourage motorists, passengers and pedestrians to play their part in saving lives during the holiday period.
In his address, TSCZ board chairperson Mr Kura Sibanda said, “Today marks the beginning of an important campaign aimed at promoting safe road use and encouraging responsible behaviour among all road users during the Heroes Holiday period.
“This campaign serves as a reminder that every life is precious and that every journey should begin and end safely.
“The Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe remains committed to its mandate of promoting road safety through public education, awareness campaigns, together with esteemed stakeholders.
“Working together with Government Ministries, law enforcement agencies, Local Authorities, transport operators, the private sector, and communities, we continue to encourage positive road safety practices among all road users. These partnerships are essential because achieving safer roads requires a collective effort.”
He said, guided by the Whole of Government approach as clearly enunciated by the National leadership, this time around, they have once again opened their door as they seek to promote the anti-drug, alcohol and substance abuse awareness campaign targeting motorists, passengers and pedestrians.
“We are positive that this partnership will go a long way in promoting road safety,” he said. “The Heroes Holiday is a special time when our Nation reflects on and commemorates the courage, sacrifice, and patriotism of our heroes and heroines who fought for Zimbabwe’s independence.
“It is also a period when thousands of people travel across the country to attend national commemorations, visit family and friends, participate in church gatherings, and enjoy holiday activities. As traffic volumes increase during this period, so does the risk of road crashes. It is for this reason that we are once again humbled to host such an occasion, including Ministers, Members of Parliament and leadership in the transport and related sectors all united for the noble cause promoting road safety. Indeed, your presence here reflects the undisputed commitment by our national leadership to the reduction of road crashes in Zimbabwe.
“This has seen Government taking a number of initiatives to reduce accidents, improve road infrastructure, and put in place measures for emergency rescue should the need arise through the Traffic Safety Council and our partners.”
He said simple actions such as wearing seat belts, observing speed limits, maintaining safe following distances, obeying traffic signs, maintaining vehicles, and showing courtesy to other road users can save lives and prevent unnecessary tragedies.
