By John Nhandara
HARARE-STAKEHOLDERS in the transport sector have welcomed Cabinet’s recent approval of the Principles of the Road Accident Fund Bill, viewing it as a critical milestone in enhancing Zimbabwe’s post-crash emergency response.
Zimbabwe continues to grapple with a high incidence of road traffic accidents, with national statistics indicating an average of five fatalities per day.
However, a longstanding impediment has been the lack of a comprehensive insurance mechanism to facilitate immediate evacuation and medical attention for accident victims.
Currently, emergency service providers often hesitate to intervene without assurance of payment, leaving many victims vulnerable during the critical “golden hour” following a crash.
Cabinet’s endorsement of the Road Accident Fund Bill seeks to bridge this gap.
The proposed fund will provide a no-fault based framework aimed at ensuring swift and effective responses to road traffic accidents.
Speaking on the development, Mr Munesu Munodawafa, the Managing Director of the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe, highlighted the potential impact of the proposed legislation.
“It fills the gap experienced after a crash where emergency response services were reluctant to respond. When you compare, the first hour is called the golden hour it is very important. It is critical to note that it is no-fault based. The next steps now involve the relevant consultations to ensure the principles are transformed into a Bill and an Act of Parliament,” he said.
Echoing similar sentiments, Zimbabwe Passenger Transport Organisation Chairperson, Mr Sam Nhanhanga, said the initiative aligns Zimbabwe with global standards.
“Most countries in the region have a road accident fund and we welcome this initiative. It will ensure the availability of proper infrastructure, resources, and services after crashes,” he said.
Members of the public have also expressed optimism, describing the move as long overdue.
“It is a good initiative since most victims cannot afford medical services,” one commuter said.
“An accident is not a choice, so this is a welcome development,” added another.
“We are calling for expedited implementation of the services,” urged another resident.
Announcing the development during a Post-Cabinet Media Briefing on Tuesday, the Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr Jenfan Muswere, said the proposed law forms part of broader efforts to reduce fatalities and injuries from road traffic accidents by 2030.
“The Road Accident Fund seeks to facilitate access to safe, affordable, and sustainable transport systems, while enhancing road safety for all,” he said.
Once enacted, the Road Accident Fund is expected to revolutionise the country’s emergency response system and bring lasting relief to thousands of road users annually.
