Story by Memory Chamisa
AUTHORITIES have intensified road safety campaigns along the busy Harare–Chitungwiza corridor as traffic volumes rise during the festive season, amid growing concern over alcohol- and drug-related accidents.
The Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe (TSCZ), working with the National Anti-Drugs campaign team and law enforcement agencies, conducted awareness activities on Tuesday aimed at discouraging impaired driving and promoting responsible road use. The stretch of road has been the site of several fatal crashes this year, including one incident that claimed 17 lives.
Road users welcomed the initiative but called for sustained enforcement beyond the festive season. Some motorists and passengers expressed concern that intoxicated drivers continue to evade detection, despite the presence of roadblocks.
“This is a good initiative, but it must not be just a Christmas or New Year campaign, but must be done all year round, as these accidents occur any day of the year.
“It is good to see the police together with these other law enforcement agencies, but the problem remains the same; these drivers are still driving under the influence, and they even pass through these roadblocks, and police just let them go, even if the car is overloaded. Police need to be vigilant, and they have the power to make one leave the driver’s seat if they suspect he or she is drunk.
“The task force initiative is welcome, but they need to start at the terminals where these drivers take these drugs and alcohol while picking up passengers. By the time they get on the road, if not apprehended, the passengers will already be in danger. Even if you reprimand them, they won’t listen to you,” motorists said.
National Anti-Drugs Team representative Mr Fanuel Madzoma said the initiative seeks to raise awareness on road safety and cultivate responsible road use.
“Drug driving is a growing problem among young drivers in the country. While most people instinctively understand the risks of drinking before getting behind the wheel, the dangers of drug-impaired driving just aren’t landing in the same way, hence today’s campaign, as roughly a third of serious or fatal drug-related traffic accidents involve drivers aged just 17 to 24,” he said.
While road accidents remain a reality, stakeholders are hopeful that consistent education, strong partnerships, and community involvement will make a real difference.
“While good roads and safe vehicles are important, human behaviour remains the most critical factor in road safety. Simple actions such as slowing down, crossing carefully, and respecting other road users are powerful tools in reducing accidents and saving lives,” Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe Vice Board Chairperson, Ms Liza Bunu said.
“We are launching the campaign to warn that their behaviour can have major consequences for themselves and others. Chitungwiza Road is very busy and has recorded fatal accidents that are heartbreaking. When you choose to take mind-altering substances and then go out into traffic, you put not only yourself but all other road users at risk. Through these collective efforts, the government continues to move steadily towards its goal of reducing road traffic fatalities by 50 % by 2030, one conversation, one decision, and one life at a time,” Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe Managing Director, Mr Munesu Munodawafa said.
The campaign is part of the wider Road Safety Festival programme, which targets heightened risk periods such as the festive season, while promoting safer driving habits intended to endure beyond the holidays.
