Online Reporter
Milton Mashasha
MOTORISTS travelling through Manama say there is one spot on the road that deserves its own warning label: “If you miss this turn, good luck!”
The notorious Bengo Crossroads in Ward 17 has become famous for leaving drivers scratching their heads, missing turns and sometimes narrowly avoiding accidents.
Residents and transport operators are now pleading for authorities to erect a cautionary road sign before the intersection, which connects routes to Gwanda, Hwali, Buvuma, Ngoma and areas stretching towards Botswana.
Ward 17 Councillor Ntuthuko Mabulala Nyathi said the junction catches many unsuspecting drivers off guard.
“Vehicles approach at speed thinking the road continues straight ahead, only to discover too late that they should have turned. At night it is even worse,” he said.
Taxi driver Best Ngubo said some motorists only realise they have missed their turn when they are already halfway to somewhere they never intended to visit.
“There is no sign showing where to go. Drivers need warning before reaching the crossroads,” he said.
Residents say getting lost at Bengo has become almost a rite of passage for newcomers.
Thenjiwe Nare of Number 8 Compound said many drivers arrive confused and only discover where they are after reaching the junction itself.
Motorcyclist Thabo Nyathi said he has witnessed several accidents at the spot.
“People come flying in, not knowing there is a crossroads ahead,” he said.
Public transport driver Lesego Mosendame recalled an Inter Africa bus whose driver accidentally headed towards Buvuma after missing the correct turn.
“The passengers got the surprise of their lives,” he laughed.
Locals say all they want is a simple signpost about 100 metres before the junction.
Their message to authorities is straightforward: before more drivers end up touring Matabeleland South by mistake, put up a sign and point people in the right direction!
