On Wednesday, 14th November 2024, the Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA) and the Zambia Road Safety Trust (ZRST) held a powerful and timely awareness campaign at Downtown Mall on Kafue Road in Lusaka, aimed at addressing critical issues surrounding road safety. The event, which ran from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm, brought together various stakeholders to emphasize the importance of safe driving practices, with a special focus on reducing traffic-related incidents.
The campaign’s primary objectives were to promote the safety of both passengers and drivers, highlighting key concerns such as overloading passengers, the dangers of night driving, and the severe risks associated with drinking and driving. By directly engaging with minibus drivers, motorbike riders, and taxi drivers groups often at the frontline of Zambia’s traffic ecosystem the event sought to raise awareness and encourage better safety practices to curb road accidents.
A Sobering Look at Road Safety Statistics
The campaign was not just about talking points but was grounded in hard-hitting statistics that painted a stark picture of the road safety crisis in Zambia. Data presented during the event revealed the alarming trends of increasing accidents and fatalities over the past three years:
- 2021 saw 33,000 road traffic accidents, resulting in over 2,000 fatalities.
- In 2022, the figures grew to 34,000 accidents, with 2,100 deaths.
- 202 recorded an even more disturbing increase, with over 35,000 accidents and fatalities surpassing 2,200.
These statistics highlight a growing road safety crisis that underscores the need for urgent and sustained interventions. The rising numbers of road accidents and fatalities are a clear indication that much more needs to be done to address the root causes of these incidents, including reckless driving, lack of enforcement, and poor road safety practices.
Campaign Focus: Targeting Key Road Users
The campaign placed a strong emphasis on three key groups that play a central role in Zambia’s road traffic dynamics:
- Minibus Drivers Often operating under tight schedules and with the temptation to overload their vehicles to maximize profit, minibus drivers were encouraged to adhere to legal load limits and ensure the safety of all passengers.
- Motorbike Riders Given their vulnerability on the road, motorbike riders were reminded of the critical importance of wearing helmets, following traffic rules, and exercising caution, especially at night.
- Taxi Drivers Taxi drivers, too, were urged to prioritize passenger safety by adhering to speed limits, avoiding alcohol consumption before driving, and ensuring their vehicles are in good condition.
Through engaging discussions, demonstrations, and distribution of informational materials, the event offered practical advice and raised awareness about the critical role these road users play in preventing traffic accidents.
A Call for Collective Action
The collaboration between the RTSA and the ZRST underscores a shared commitment to tackling the road safety challenges facing Zambia. The campaign’s message was clear: we all have a role to play in reducing road traffic accidents and fatalities. The agencies emphasized the importance of continued vigilance, responsible driving, and strict enforcement of traffic laws to create a safer road environment for everyone.
As highlighted by the ZRST and RTSA, road safety is not just the responsibility of law enforcement, but of every road user. The ultimate goal is to create a culture of safety that encourages responsible behavior and reduces the risk of preventable tragedies.
Looking Ahead: Steps Toward a Safer Zambia
The Road Transport and Safety Agency and the Zambia Road Safety Trust are committed to making this campaign the first of many. They hope to expand these efforts across the country to reach even more road users and communities. In addition to this, continued data collection, monitoring, and evaluation of road safety trends will be essential to guide policy decisions and safety interventions.
With the rising number of accidents and fatalities, it’s clear that more urgent action is needed. By raising awareness, providing practical solutions, and encouraging responsible road use, Zambia can take meaningful steps toward reversing the current trends and ultimately saving lives.
Conclusion
The road safety campaign at Downtown Mall is a vital part of the broader effort to tackle Zambia’s growing traffic safety crisis. Through collaboration, education, and a commitment to safety, ZRST and RTSA are working together to protect all road users, reduce accidents, and ultimately create a safer environment for everyone on Zambia’s roads.
As we move forward, it is essential that these types of awareness campaigns continue, and that all road users whether drivers, passengers, or pedestrians take collective responsibility for safer roads. The goal is clear: to significantly reduce road traffic accidents and fatalities, and to create a safer, more secure Zambia for all.
