At the Zambia Road Safety Trust (ZRST), we believe that every child deserves a safe journey to and from school. In partnership with Prudential Safe Steps, we recently launched a groundbreaking initiative aimed at enhancing Road Safety Education (RSE) for schoolchildren in Livingstone. The week-long event, which included various activities and collaborations with local authorities and schools, is a significant step toward reducing road-related accidents and promoting safer roads for all.
A Step Toward Safer Roads: Zebra Crossings & Education Sessions 🚦
One of the key highlights of the initiative was the painting of zebra crossings at critical pedestrian locations in Livingstone. These markings, which are designed to improve visibility and ensure safer crossings, will help protect children, especially in areas with high foot traffic around schools. By enhancing pedestrian infrastructure, we aim to provide safer routes for students, reducing the risk of accidents.
Beyond the infrastructure improvements, ZRST conducted targeted Road Safety Education sessions at some of the most high-risk schools in the region. Through engaging lessons, demonstrations, and practical advice, we provided children with the knowledge and skills to navigate roads safely. Our educational efforts focused on the following schools, all of which are now equipped with essential road safety awareness:
- Mujala Primary & Secondary School
- Maria Regina Primary School, Linda
- Mulwani Primary & Secondary School
- Nansanzu Primary & Secondary School
- Libala Primary & Secondary School
Additionally, we reached out to Prudential House in Lusaka to further extend the scope of our outreach.
Engaging with Local Stakeholders for Stronger Impact 👏
ZRST’s commitment to improving road safety goes beyond the classroom. During our time in Livingstone, we met with key local authorities, including Livingstone City Council representatives Eng. Bright Nsonge and Eng. Layson, to discuss the zebra crossing project. Their support highlighted the city’s dedication to building safer roads for all its residents.
Our collaboration with the Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA) was another crucial component of the initiative. We worked closely with Ms. Moya, RTSA’s Branch Station Manager, and Mr. Kaposhi, the Examination Centre Station Manager, to review our efforts and plan for future projects. RTSA’s full support has been invaluable, and we look forward to their continued involvement in spreading road safety education across Zambia.
Celebrating Student Achievement and Commitment to Road Safety 🎉
To further encourage a culture of road safety, we awarded prizes to students who demonstrated exceptional knowledge and commitment to road safety. Top-performing pupils at the RTSA Examination Centre received SafeSteps T-shirts, caps, and Highway Codes as part of a celebration of their hard work and dedication.
One of the standout moments was at Libala Primary School on March 11th, when we launched the school’s very own Road Safety Club. With the enthusiastic support of the head teacher, the club promises to continue fostering road safety awareness long after the programme’s conclusion.
A Lasting Legacy: Continuous Commitment to Safer Roads 🌍
As we concluded the Road Safety Education Programme in Livingstone on March 14th, with the final sessions at Maria Regina Primary School and Nansanzu Primary School, the feedback from students, teachers, and local stakeholders has been overwhelmingly positive. Through these sessions, we’ve seen a significant increase in students’ knowledge about road safety, and many have committed to adopting safer behaviors when crossing streets and traveling to school.
This successful initiative is just the beginning. ZRST remains steadfast in our mission to save lives and reduce road-related accidents across Zambia. With the ongoing support of Prudential Safe Steps, RTSA, and local authorities, we will continue to expand this vital program to more communities in need.
We are grateful to everyone who played a part in making this project a success and, together, we will keep working towards creating a safer, accident-free future for our children. 🚸💚
Let’s Continue Working for Safer Roads! 🚗💚
At ZRST, we know that road safety is an ongoing effort. We will be compiling a detailed report on our findings and recommendations from this programme, which will guide future efforts in promoting safe roads for children. Together, we can make every road a safer place for all, because every child deserves a safe journey.
#SaferRoadsForChildren #SaveLives #ZRST #RoadSafetyEducation #PrudentialSafeSteps #Livingstone #Zambia
