Story by Wellington Makonese
MOTORISTS have been urged to adhere to road regulations and exercise extreme caution during the Easter holidays to prevent loss of life, as traffic volumes surge across the country.
The call comes in the wake of a tragic accident along the Harare–Masvingo Highway that claimed six lives from the same family at the start of the holiday period. The fatal crash, involving two private vehicles in a head-on collision, has once again highlighted the dangers associated with peak travel periods.
Long holidays such as Easter and Independence Day Zimbabwe are historically marked by a spike in road traffic accidents, prompting authorities to intensify safety campaigns.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police, in collaboration with the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe and transport operators, has rolled out awareness initiatives at major pick-up points targeting both drivers and commuters.
Passengers have welcomed the move, saying it is improving awareness and easing congestion.
“In the buses we are being taught about safety, and it is helping us as passengers to understand our role on the roads,” a passenger said.
“This initiative is good for commuters, and we appreciate that more buses have been added, easing congestion during the holidays,” a commuter said.
Travellers and motorists also emphasised the importance of responsible behaviour, particularly avoiding reckless driving and alcohol consumption.
“The idea about being safe on the roads is to stay alive. During this holiday, we are reminded of life, and we should avoid reckless behaviour,” a traveller said.
“The issue of drinking and driving must be avoided because it puts many lives at risk,” a motorist said.
Despite ongoing awareness campaigns, the Zimbabwe Republic Police says compliance remains critical.
“We are carrying out this campaign with the view to reducing road traffic accidents. We have improved the use of breathalysers, increased patrols and mounted more roadblocks to ensure that unroadworthy vehicles are kept off the roads in order to save lives,” said Harare Province Officer Commanding, Commissioner Maxwell Chikunguru.
The trend during major holidays continues to raise concern, with statistics for 2025 recording over 380 accidents, up from around 280 in 2024.
Meanwhile, the Zimbabwe Republic Police has released the names of the victims of the Harare–Masvingo Highway accident as Lilian Maranda Mujuru (40), Nokuthula Mujuru (15), Makanaka Mujuru (13), Ronald Junior Mujuru (11), Rufaro Shalom Mujuru (7), and Kayden Mujuru (3).
Authorities continue to urge all road users to prioritise safety to avoid further tragedies during the holiday period.
