Story by Mhlomuli Ncube
Authorities in Matabeleland North Province have launched the 2025 Festive Season Road Safety Campaign, aimed at reducing road accidents and promoting responsible behaviour as traffic volumes increase during the holiday period.
The campaign was officially launched on Friday in Hwange, with law enforcement agencies and key stakeholders urging motorists, passengers and pedestrians to prioritise safety amid heightened travel and social activity.
Officials warned that the festive season is traditionally associated with a spike in road traffic accidents, largely driven by speeding, drink-driving, drug and substance abuse and reckless behaviour. As part of the campaign, awareness programmes and road safety operations will be intensified across the province.
The 2025 campaign is anchored on messages of safe travel, zero tolerance for drug and substance abuse, self-restraint in social interactions and strict adherence to road traffic regulations.
Zimbabwe Republic Police Officer Commanding Matabeleland North Province, Commissioner Jealous Nyabasa, led the stakeholder engagement, cautioning road users against both traffic violations and the rise in crime commonly recorded during the festive season.
“The festive season is upon us all, and as we know, festivities are associated with a lot of movements; therefore, an increase in both vehicular and human traffic on our major roads should be anticipated. Be wary also of criminal activities such as theft, theft from a motor vehicle, theft of a motor vehicle, unlawful entry, theft, Rape, Domestic Violence, Murder, Robbery and Drug abuse will usually increase around this time.”
He warned travellers to remain vigilant against crimes such as theft, robbery, unlawful entry, drug abuse and violent offences, noting that criminals often target bus termini and busy travel routes.
“Travelers are usually subjected to unwarranted pressure and violence, and even lose their valuables such as cash and property, to thieves masquerading as touts at bus termini. We also advise against carrying large sums of money and encourage travellers to secure their homes by leaving a responsible person in charge. Sometimes, Status Updates on WhatsApp and Facebook can also alert criminals about your movements, so be careful. Please observe all rules and regulations as spelt out in the Road Traffic Act,” he said.
Commissioner Nyabasa also urged road users to comply fully with the Road Traffic Act, stressing that law enforcement officers would be conducting heightened patrols and checks throughout the festive period.
Matabeleland North, which hosts major tourist destinations including Hwange National Park and Victoria Falls, experiences heavy traffic flows during the festive season due to increased tourism, social activities and commercial movements.
Authorities say the campaign is intended to safeguard lives and property, ensuring that residents and visitors alike enjoy a safe and incident-free festive season.
