By Sani Mbofana
Harare Mayor Cllr Jacob Mafume has vowed to address the safety concerns at the Dzivaresekwa Turn Off along Bulawayo Road, following a recent road accident that sparked widespread concern among residents.
Mayor Mafume sent condolence message to the affected families and acknowledged the urgent need for a solution, assuring residents that his team will assess the area to determine the best measures to slow down traffic.
“We are very sorry for the tragedy; we will send our teams to make assessments on how best to slow down traffic,” said Mayor Mafume in response to pleas from residents, including one from Philip Pasirayi on X (formerly Twitter).
The mayor’s sentiments came as he received a newly renovated Belvedere Clinic, courtesy of the Hindu Community in Belvedere. One possible solution being considered is the implementation of smart traffic light systems, which use real-time data from sensors and cameras to optimize traffic flow, reducing congestion and the risk of accidents.
These systems can adapt traffic signal controls based on traffic conditions, helping to prevent accidents like the one that occurred at the Dzivaresekwa Turn Off.
Smart traffic light systems also come with features such as Adaptive Traffic Signals Control (ATSC), Integrated Emergency Vehicle Signal Preemption (EVSP), Eco-Driving Mode, and Micro-Mobility Priority Service, which can significantly improve road safety and reduce congestion.
In addition to smart traffic light systems, another viable solution could be the installation of a roundabout at the Dzivaresekwa Turn Off. Roundabouts are designed to reduce traffic speed and minimize the risk of accidents.
By installing a roundabout, traffic flow can be slowed down, and the risk of accidents can be significantly reduced. Other African cities have successfully implemented smart city technologies to enhance road safety and traffic management.
For example, Kigali in Rwanda, has implemented a Smart City Masterplan, which includes smart traffic management, mobile technology for urban services, and free Wi-Fi hotspots for residents and businesses. Similarly, Konza Technopolis in Kenya is a planned smart city that aims to drive technology-focused industries and offer state-of-the-art infrastructure.
As Mayor Mafume’s team assesses the area, they are likely to consider the benefits of smart traffic light systems and other innovative solutions. By investing in these technologies, Harare can take a crucial step towards creating safer, more efficient roads.
The residents of Harare deserve no less. As the mayor’s team explores possible solutions, they may also consider other measures such as education and awareness campaigns, strict law enforcement, advanced driver training, improved infrastructure, and community engagement to prevent road accidents and enhance road safety.
Eight people lost their lives on Monday (17 March) after a truck rammed into a kombi near DZ turn off which has become a black spot area.