Story by Providence Maraneli
TRAFFIC Safety Council of Zimbabwe (TSCZ) is engaging community leaders and residents across the country to find lasting solutions to the growing problem of pirate taxis.
For many families, the school run has become hectic, busy, and increasingly concerning.
During one morning drop-off, a small vehicle was observed carrying 16 learners, highlighting the dangers of overcrowding and the risks associated with unregulated transport services.
This has become common in most towns, as these small pirate taxis put precious lives at risk.
Through these community engagements, TSCZ aims to raise awareness and gather input on measures that can improve road safety and protect commuters, particularly schoolchildren.
The TSCZ has met with Gwanda residents and community leaders to address these concerns.
“We were engaging the residents so that we reduce accidents on our roads , and from the trainings we have noted some positive responses, and we think they will take these to the various communities,” Regional Manager, Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe, Mr Blessing Sai said.
The engagement highlighted the need for both parents and transporters to work together to ensure children’s safety.
“We have learnt a lot sometimes, as parents, we are just reluctant to react when an accident has happened,” a parent said.
“Sometimes we just do not adhere to rules. Imagine you see learners packed in a car and we do not question it,” a resident said.
“We need to work together to ensure our children are safe,” a guardian said.
Pirate taxis have become a headache to many towns across the country, with the TSCZ expected to cascade these solution-driven engagements to other towns and cities.
