marble nkomo
Sikhulekelani Moyo, sikhu.moyo@[email protected]
SHE entirely stopped her daily morning health walk routine solely to help schoolchildren and vulnerable people cross a busy road in Bulawayo’s Woodlands suburb, determined to ensure the safety of those who often struggle with peak-hour traffic.
Such selfless acts rarely go unnoticed, and in her case, they revealed the quiet heart of a community inspired by her dedication — a commitment that has now earned her a public award.
This is the story of a retired mother, Rose Blair, who for the past seven years has committed herself to helping schoolchildren, people with disabilities, and the elderly cross the road safely during the morning rush.
In an interview, Ms Blair said her presence at a zebra crossing in her neighbourhood has given both children and adults a sense of safety as they make their way to school or work. She added that her daily duty has helped educate motorists on the importance of giving pedestrians the right of way at a designated crossing.
“I used to walk for fitness every morning and often encountered frightened little schoolchildren trying to cross the road to school. So, I would grab their hands, stop the traffic and take them safely across the zebra crossing. After about two weeks of doing this, I realised there was a real need. So, I gave up my morning walk to help the little school kids cross the road safely to school.
It took off from there! I was given two reflective jackets by appreciative parents, and the STOP sign was made by a parent in my suburb of Woodlands who owns a construction company. This is my seventh year of doing this duty, and I love it. I have been blessed many times over the years with gifts of appreciation by parents and members of the public — so heart-warming.”
Blair has recently received an honorary community award during the Business Manoeuvre dinner held in Bulawayo.
“Honourable Deputy Minister Raj Modi presented me with a Certificate of Appreciation for, and I quote from the certificate: ‘In recognition of your meaningful contribution, service and positive impact within our community. Your dedication and commitment continue to inspire progress, strengthen unity and uplift those around you’. It was extremely humbling but such an honour!”
Blair said her efforts have also helped raise critical awareness among road users. However, she noted that a minority of motorists remain defiant and continue to disregard the rules governing zebra crossings.
“Education is needed to make the public aware that pedestrians have the supreme right of way on a zebra crossing and should not be hooted at or verbally abused — it is the LAW. The majority of children who cross there are from Tennyson School, there are a few Townsend girls; Milton boys, Coghlan children, Gifford boys and some students from colleges in town. I also have nurses, teachers, businesspeople and gardeners crossing as well.”
Blair said it is mostly the younger pupils in the lower grades at Tennyson who need assistance, though many older students, elderly people and individuals living with disabilities also rely on her support each morning.
During the Business Manoeuvre Awards, Ms Blair received a token of appreciation from local business leaders who said her work deserved to be formally recognised.
Ms Blair acknowledged the gesture, saying it was heart-warming to realise that her efforts are being seen and valued by the community at large.
Online Reporter