On November 17, 2024, Zambia Road Safety Trust (ZRST) marked the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Accident Victims, a day to honor and remember those whose lives have been tragically impacted by road traffic accidents. Held at the Anglican Cathedral of the Holy Cross in Lusaka, the event was a powerful reminder of the urgent need for road safety action, not just in Zambia, but globally.
Reflecting on the Theme: “That Day”
This year’s theme, “That Day”, focused on the personal, life-changing experiences of road traffic accident victims. It reminded us all of the moment when everything changed forever—when an accident reshaped lives and families. Each story shared at the event highlighted the profound emotional, physical, and psychological toll of such tragedies.
Heartfelt Testimonies: Stories of Survival and Loss
The event featured moving testimonies from individuals whose lives were directly affected by road traffic accidents:
• Kelvin Chooma, a survivor of a life-threatening crash, shared his powerful journey of survival and how it ignited his passion to advocate for road safety in Zambia.
• Ms. Chama Ruth Mwansa, a road accident survivor, opened up about the challenges of recovery and the long road to emotional healing.
• Mrs. Pamela M. Kwaleyela, who lost a loved one in a road accident, gave an emotional account of grief and the need for ongoing support for families affected by loss.
These testimonies were a stark reminder that behind every statistic is a human story that demands empathy, action, and change.
Leadership Commitment to Road Safety
Key figures attended the event, reinforcing their commitment to road safety in Zambia:
• Mr. Nkumbu Siame, Director of Transport, emphasized the government’s role in enhancing road safety through improved measures and enforcement.
• Eng. Amon Mweemba, CEO of the Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA), highlighted the collective responsibility of every Zambian to make roads safer.
• Eng. Allen Mate, RTSA Board Chairperson, stressed the importance of collaboration between government, private sector, and civil society to tackle road traffic accidents.
• Daniel Mwamba, Chairperson of ZRST, his presence reaffirmed the organization’s ongoing dedication to advocating for safer roads.
• Paul Mwanza, ZRST Secretary General, his presence underscored the critical role of organizations like ZRST in supporting accident victims and raising public awareness.
• Paul Siloka, Zambia Police Superintendent, spoke about the need for stronger enforcement and accountability for road violations.
A Symbolic Gesture of Support
In a touching moment of solidarity, the event saw the presentation of wheelchairs to selected road traffic accident victims. This gesture symbolized the long and difficult journey many victims face after their physical recovery, emphasizing the importance of continued support throughout their healing process.
Candle Lighting: A Moment to Remember and Hope for the Future
The event concluded with a candle lighting ceremony—a poignant moment to remember road traffic accident victims, both in Zambia and around the world. The act of lighting candles symbolized hope for a future where fewer families suffer the devastating loss of loved ones due to accidents.
A Call to Action for Safer Roads
The World Day of Remembrance was not only a time for reflection but a call to action. ZRST remains steadfast in its mission to Remember, Support, and Act for safer roads in Zambia. Through continued collaboration, education, and the enforcement of road safety measures, we can work together to create safer roads for all.
Join Us in the Fight for Safer Roads
