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Herald Reporter
The Government’s decision to roll out breathalysers and implement smart traffic enforcement at roadblocks across the country has been hailed as a critical step towards improving road safety, especially ahead of the Easter and Independence Day holidays.The Southern African Alcohol Policy Alliance (SAAPA) Zimbabwe welcomed the move on Wednesday, describing it as a bold and timely intervention in the country’s fight against alcohol-related traffic accidents.
“This move could not have come at a better time. The deployment of breathalysers shows a real commitment to saving lives and keeping our roads safe,” read the statement.
“We applaud this step. It is a sign that the Government is listening and responding to a long-standing public health concern.”
Statistics from previous holiday periods have consistently shown a surge in road carnage, often linked to alcohol abuse. The introduction of modern enforcement tools is expected to significantly reduce incidents of drink-driving.
However, SAAPA Zimbabwe warned that while breathalysers are a vital deterrent, they are not a standalone solution.
The organisation called for the urgent adoption and implementation of Zimbabwe’s National Alcohol Policy.
“To truly turn the tide on alcohol-related harm, Zimbabwe must urgently implement the National Alcohol Policy, a policy that has been waiting in the wings for far too long,” the alliance said.
The proposed policy framework, which has been under review for several years, seeks to regulate alcohol consumption in line with the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) Global Strategy and SAFER initiative.
The strategy recommends evidence-based interventions such as restricting alcohol availability, enforcing drink-driving laws, increasing alcohol taxes, banning aggressive marketing and expanding treatment for alcohol dependence.
“Breathalysers can catch drunk-drivers – but strong alcohol policies can prevent them in the first place,” SAAPA Zimbabwe said.
The organisation also urged members of the public to act responsibly during the upcoming holidays, calling on citizens to prioritise safety and look out for one another.
“Let’s honour these holidays by protecting one another. Don’t drink and drive. Choose safety. Choose life.”
Online Reporter