In the heart of Lusaka, Zambia, the Zambia Road Safety Trust (ZRST) initiated a significant project known as the Reduce Speeding initiative. Made possible with support from Vital Strategies and collaboration with the Zambia Police, the Road Transport and Safety Agency, and the Lusaka City Council, in just six months, this initiative achieved remarkable success in addressing road safety challenges and protecting vulnerable road users, especially children.
The primary aim of the project was to reduce road traffic injuries, with a specific focus on school-going children and highly pedestrianized areas. The objectives included a targeted reduction of fatal and injury-causing crashes by 50% within five years, a 10% enhancement in compliance with speed limits over the same timeframe, and the strengthening of speed management knowledge among stakeholders.
Through this project, we conducted training sessions for 12 traffic officers, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge for effective implementation. Close collaboration with the Zambia Police allowed us to refine and improve our strategies for maximum impact.
In our enforcement and awareness campaigns, we partnered with key stakeholders such as RTSA, Zambia Police, and the Lusaka City Council. Focusing specifically on Aluma School and Matero Secondary School, we diligently enforced the 30km/h speed limit within school zones while simultaneously raising awareness about its importance. This targeted approach aimed to create a safer environment for both school-going children and the wider community.
Expanding our efforts, we extended awareness campaigns to Silverest Primary School. Here, we directly engaged with pupils, fostering a deeper understanding of road safety. Additionally, we distributed informative flyers to ensure that the message reached a wider audience.
Through collaboration, training, and targeted campaigns, we are working towards a safer and more informed road environment for all, with a specific focus on raising awareness of the 30 km/h speed limit in school zones.
