Zimbabwe Government Introduces Breathalysers At Roadblocks To Curb Festive Season Road Accidents

The Government of Zimbabwe, in partnership with the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe (TSCZ), has introduced new breathalysers at roadblocks to combat the rising number of accidents caused by impaired driving. These devices will be used at police roadblocks as part of an intensified road safety campaign during the festive season.

Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona has confirmed that more breathalysers are being procured to ensure these measures are widely implemented.

Citizen Participation in Road Safety

Minister Mhona urged the public to actively support these efforts by reporting reckless driving and following traffic regulations.

“We must also take responsibility as citizens. If you witness dangerous behaviour on the roads, report it immediately.”

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Zimbabwe introduces breathalysers at Roadblocks-Image Source@Facebook

The Minister emphasized the importance of vigilance during the holiday period, noting that increased traffic volumes often lead to risky behaviours such as speeding, overloading, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Kazembe Kazembe echoed these concerns, emphasizing the need for collective action to reverse current trends in road safety.

“The time has come for us to work together to address the alarming rate of road accidents.”

Police will increase their presence on highways through more roadblocks and motorised patrols. Vehicles that fail to meet safety standards will be impounded and held at designated centres until they are deemed roadworthy.

Support from the Insurance Sector

The Insurance Council of Zimbabwe (ICZ) is also playing a crucial role in this initiative. In a move to strengthen enforcement, the ICZ has provided resources for the purchase of breathalysers. In 2022, the ICZ contributed traffic safety equipment valued at US$82,000, which included breathalysers.

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Collaborative Monitoring and Enforcement

National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi disclosed that multi-stakeholder monitoring teams have been established to reduce road accidents further. These teams work closely with the Ministry of Health and Child Care to conduct on-site tests for drivers suspected of driving under the influence.

They encouraged all road users to exercise caution and strictly adhere to traffic laws to help lower the country’s high rate of road traffic accidents.

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