Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya, Beitbridge Bureau
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) and the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe have launched a road safety awareness campaign targeting major highways linking Beitbridge Border Post to key towns across the country.
Officer Commanding Beitbridge District (Dispol), Chief Superintendent Mesuli Ncube, said authorities were concerned by the continued loss of lives due to road traffic accidents, particularly during major public holidays.
He said the awareness campaigns were being conducted along roads leading to Bulawayo and Harare, as well as within the border post, which handles about 200 buses, 2 100 light vehicles and 1 000 commercial trucks daily.
Statistics show that during the 2025 Easter and Independence holiday period, Zimbabwe recorded 384 road traffic accidents, a 34 percent increase from the 286 cases reported in 2024. While fatalities slightly decreased to 24 deaths from 27 in 2024, injuries rose to 178.
“We are carrying out this campaign to save lives. Don’t risk it – drive safely, avoid overloading, and never drink and drive. We’ll be enforcing traffic rules, and those who flout them will face consequences. Let’s make this Easter journey safe for all,” said Chief Supt Ncube.
He said it was critical for road users to observe traffic laws throughout the Easter period, adding that police officers had been deployed in full force to enforce compliance.
Chief Supt Ncube said authorities were concerned about recurring fatal accidents largely attributed to human error, hence the need for continuous engagement and education of motorists to prioritise safety.
He urged drivers to create a safe environment for themselves and other road users, including taking rest breaks during long-distance travel to reduce fatigue-related accidents.
“We are encouraging passengers to desist from the culture of putting pressure on drivers of public transport to speed,” said Chief Supt Ncube.
“This is risky behaviour. Both motorists and passengers are discouraged from drinking alcohol while travelling to avoid unnecessary situations.
“At the same time we urge the travelling public to avoid hitchhiking in private vehicles as they risk falling into the hands of criminals who always take advantage during peak periods like the Easter Holidays”.
Matabeleland South regional manager for the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe, Blessing Sai, said it was important for both road users and Government to work together to save lives during the Easter holidays.
“Whether you’re driving or a passenger, speak up if you see danger on the road,” he said.
Mr Sai added that passengers should engage drivers if they notice dangerous behaviour such as speeding or drinking alcohol, or report them to authorities at the next police or security roadblock.
