Staff Writer
Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Hon. Adv. Felix Tapiwa Mhona has called for stronger road safety interventions, improved enforcement and greater collaboration among stakeholders as Zimbabwe intensifies efforts to reduce road crashes, injuries and fatalities.
Minister Mhona was represented by the Ministry’s Director of Human Resources, Ms N. Bore, at the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe (TSCZ) Annual General Meeting held at the Hyatt Regency Harare.
Addressing the AGM, Minister Mhona commended the TSCZ Board, management and staff for their continued efforts in advancing the national road safety agenda and supporting Government’s vision of reducing road crashes, injuries and fatalities.
“Strengthening road safety interventions, enforcement mechanisms, road infrastructure development and sustained public awareness campaigns is critical if we are to promote safer road use and reduce the loss of lives on our roads,” said Minister Mhona.
He urged TSCZ to strengthen collaboration with Government, law enforcement agencies, local authorities, transport operators, educational institutions, development partners and the private sector.
“Road safety is a shared responsibility. We must strengthen collaboration among all stakeholders and ensure that every sector plays its part in creating safer roads and protecting lives,” Minister Mhona said.
The Minister also called for greater use of research and data-driven decision-making in the development and implementation of road safety programmes.
“Our road safety programmes must be informed by credible research and reliable data so that they remain responsive to emerging trends and risks,” he said.
Minister Mhona challenged TSCZ to accelerate efforts towards becoming a leading road safety agency and a centre of excellence in research, education, advocacy and stakeholder coordination.
“I challenge the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe to accelerate its efforts towards becoming a leading road safety agency and a centre of excellence in research, education, advocacy and stakeholder coordination,” said Minister Mhona.
He further stressed the need for behavioural change among drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, passengers and transport operators.
“Behavioural change is essential. Drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, passengers and transport operators must embrace safety, discipline and respect for traffic laws if we are to significantly reduce road crashes,” Minister Mhona said.
The Minister’s remarks come as Zimbabwe continues to confront road safety challenges, with sustained interventions and responsible road use required to curb preventable crashes and save lives.
The AGM was attended by TSCZ Board Chairperson Mr K. Sibanda and board members, Managing Director Mr M. Munodawafa, as well as several Government officials.