Staff Reporter
The Government of Zimbabwe has taken a major step toward improving road safety and post-accident care by approving the principles of the Road Accident Fund Bill, which is designed to reduce road fatalities and provide swift medical and financial assistance to accident victims.
Speaking at a post-Cabinet media briefing in Harare on Tuesday, Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr Jenfan Muswere, outlined several key decisions made by Cabinet, including new legislation aimed at strengthening transport safety, workplace health standards, and international legal cooperation.
“The Road Accident Fund Bill seeks to address gaps in our current post-accident management system. Our existing insurance packages do not guarantee immediate evacuation or treatment for accident victims. This Bill will change that,” said Dr Muswere.
The proposed Fund will ensure immediate coverage for medical and funeral expenses, while enhancing the capacity of emergency responders to save lives. It will be financed through motor vehicle insurance premiums and Treasury appropriations, and it aims to transform how Zimbabwe responds to traffic accidents.
“Emergency service providers have been hesitant to assist without payment guarantees. The Fund will remove that barrier and place a greater focus on post-crash care, long-term rehabilitation, and improved coordination between medical institutions,” Dr Muswere explained.
The Road Accident Fund Bill aligns with Zimbabwe’s broader Vision 2030, aiming to reduce deaths and injuries from road traffic accidents through the promotion of safe, affordable, and sustainable transport systems.
In addition to road safety measures, Dr Muswere noted that cabinet also considered and approved the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Bill, 2025, which will consolidate and expand workplace health and safety regulations.
“Our workplace safety laws have been fragmented and outdated. This Bill aligns our national laws with key International LabourOrganisation conventions and will repeal the outdated Pneumonoconiosis and Factories and Works Acts.
“The OSH Bill is expected to help eliminate occupational injuries, diseases, and fatalities across all key sectors, including mining, manufacturing, and chemical industries,” said DrMuswere.
Meanwhile, Minister Muswere highlighted that cabinet also approved the ratification of the Treaty on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters between Zimbabwe and China, which was signed in September 2024. The
“Treaty aims to improve cooperation in investigations, prosecutions, and judicial proceedings. This agreement strengthens our commitment to international justice and enhances Zimbabwe’s ability to combat transnational crime through cooperation with China. It reflects our diplomatic maturity and desire to align with global best practices,” DrMuswere said.
These legislative developments signal a renewed commitment by the Government to protect its citizens on the roads, in the workplace, and within the judicial system while reinforcing Zimbabwe’s international partnerships.
