Staff Reporter
The new driver`s license which dovetails with the objectives of National Development Strategy (NDS) 1 of modernizing the economy using Information Communication Technology (ICT) and other digital technologies will result in increased benefits such as reduced costs of production.
Speaking on the occasion of the launch of New SADC compliant driver`s licence; multilingual electronic learner`s licence testing system and digital route permit today, Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Felix Mhona stated that the new driver`s license would bring a number of benefits resulting in efficiency and effectiveness in the processing and issuance of driver’s licences.
“I extend my profound gratitude to all stakeholders who have worked so hard to develop this new SADC Compliant Drivers` License System, which comes with increased benefits such as reduced production costs, improved turnaround time and quality of service.
“I hold this launch as an eloquent testimony of the commitment that Government and the private sector have, towards efficiency and effectiveness in the processing and issuance of drivers` licenses,” said the Minister.
Minister Mhona indicated that the new drivers` license was time effective as it would be processed in one week.
“This new SADC Compliant Drivers` license system will therefore drastically reduce the waiting period for obtaining a new license. The convenience to our citizens comes from the automation of the process and drivers will now be able to receive their license within 7 working days from the day they pass their Competence Test,” said Minister Mhona.
According to the Minister, the new drivers` license would also help in curbing corruption.
“It also speaks volumes of our collective efforts to foster efficiency and eliminate corruption in the issuance of drivers` licenses. The new SADC Compliant Drivers` license system will also enhance Government`s capacity to develop an electronic Database of licensed Drivers which will be linked with all relevant stakeholders,” he said.
Meanwhile, Minister Mhona articulated that the new drivers` license would be valid for driving across the 25 Tripartite countries, and beyond, without any need for conversion as prescribed by Article 6.10 of the SADC Protocol on Transport, Communication and Meteorology of 19196 which provides that the Member States shall adopt harmonized format of drivers` licenses and shall harmonize learner`s license testing and codes with a view to encouraging the mutual recognition of each other`s learner`s licenses.
