Story by Mercy Bofu-Matinha
MASVINGO – LAW enforcement agents have rallied road users to be cautious on the roads given an increase in the number of accidents being recorded countrywide.
Following a sharp increase in the number of road accidents, especially along the Mbalabala-Masvingo-Mutare road, the Zimbabwe Republic Police and other relevant stakeholders conducted an engagement meeting with road users in Zishumbe area of Masvingo, reminding them of the importance of being cautious on the roads.
Police revealed that nearly 700 accidents were recorded in Masvingo province alone between January and May this year.
The Officer Commanding ZRP Masvingo Province, Commissioner Frederick Mbengwa expressed deep concern over the toll the accidents have taken on communities.
“As the Zimbabwe Republic Police, we are saddened by the number of accidents recorded on our roads, especially here in Masvingo Province. Since January, 673 road accidents have occurred, with 59 of them being fatal and 82 people lost their lives. This has prompted us to partner with the Vehicle Inspection Department (VID), the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe, the church, and traditional leaders to conduct this awareness campaign. We are urging all road users to observe road regulations and practice caution.”
Mr Henry Kahia of Masvingo Provincial Vehicle Inspection Department highlighted that defective vehicles continue to contribute significantly to traffic accidents.
“Unroadworthy vehicles have been causing accidents and we continue to perform our duty of ensuring only roadworthy vehicles are on the roads.”
The traditional leadership and the church emphasised on the importance of following road rules, especially by young drivers.
“As community leaders, we appreciate today’s programme. We have witnessed our police working with us to promote road safety. We appeal to our children not to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. We also urge our police officers to remain professional and ensure those who break the law are held accountable,” Chief Chikwanda said.
“As the church, it is our duty to pray for peace, harmony and love among our people. We pray for our drivers to be patient on our roads because they will be carrying precious life,” Bishop Sebanzile Msiza added.
Authorities are on record calling upon road users to be cautious on the roads, while government has been working on modernising the country’s road network.
