Staff Reporter

Government has launched a national road safety campaign ahead of the Easter and Independence holidays, warning reckless drivers, unlicensed transport operators, and passengers who use illegal public vehicles that enforcement will be intensified.

Speaking at the launch of the Easter and Independence Road Safety Education and Enforcement Awareness Campaign in Glendale on Monday, Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, Kazembe Kazembe said law enforcement would take decisive action to curb traffic violations.

“The police remain resolute in taming the traffic jungle and stopping the wanton loss of precious human life. I want to send a very strong warning to all reckless road users, unlicensed transport operators, and those who continue to board Mushika-shikas: the net is closing in,” said Minister Kazembe.

The campaign comes as Zimbabwe continues to grapple with high rates of road accidents, particularly during holiday periods. Authorities say most of these accidents are preventable and caused by human error and disregard for traffic laws.

Minister Kazembe identified the key causes of road carnage as speeding, worn or defective tyres, illegal overtaking, failure to wear seatbelts, driving under the influence of alcohol, poor lane discipline, mobile phone use while driving, overloading, and the use of unroadworthy vehicles.

“We are losing lives not because of bad roads but because of bad behaviour. Infrastructure improvements alone won’t save lives; we need discipline and accountability on our roads,” he said.

The Minister said the road safety campaign will involve a combination of public education, increased police visibility, and strict enforcement of road regulations. Law enforcement agencies will focus on known hotspots and high-risk operators during the holiday period.

"This is not just a transport issue; it is a national safety concern that requires a united, multi-sectoral response. We welcome the progress in infrastructure development, but it must be matched by responsible road use. We urge all citizens to obey traffic laws and report any violations they witness,” he said.

The campaign is part of the Government’s broader efforts to reduce road-related injuries and fatalities, which continue to place a heavy burden on public health services and the economy.