Driving instructors teach students how to survive Zimbabwe's deadly roads. Africanews
Surviving Zimbabwe's Deadliest Roads: A Fight for Life on Africa's Most Treacherous HighwaysAs I delved into the heart of Zimbabwe's road safety crisis, one thing became starkly clear – the country's roads are a ticking time bomb. With an average of five fatalities and 38 injuries every day, it's no wonder that driving instructors like Tafara Muvhevhi have had to adapt their teaching methods to focus on survival rather than just passing exams.
Muvhevhi, a seasoned instructor with 16 years of experience, has witnessed the transformation of Zimbabwe's roads from orderly thoroughfares to chaotic battlegrounds. The once-pristine highways have given way to potholed tarmacs, congested streets, and reckless driving that puts lives at risk every minute of every day. "Back then we were teaching by the book," Muvhevhi reminisces, "but now it's all about survival." His students are not just learning to drive; they're learning to navigate a minefield of danger on wheels.
The statistics paint a grim picture: road crashes occur every 15 minutes, claiming five lives and injuring 38 people daily. The national statistics agency confirms that road accidents rank among the top killers in Zimbabwe, with road accident fatality rates among the continent's worst. It's a staggering reality that has left authorities scrambling to find solutions.
The root cause of this crisis lies in human error – a staggering 94% of road accidents are attributed to reckless driving, with cellphone distractions accounting for around 10% of deaths. The World Health Organization estimates nearly 30 deaths per 100,000 people, making Zimbabwe one of Africa's most hazardous places to drive.
As I explored the streets of Harare, I witnessed firsthand the brazen disregard for road rules. Minibus taxis careen through pedestrian lanes and oncoming traffic, while fare collectors cling to moving vehicles, shouting for customers. Sedans packed with 12 passengers – including in the trunk – defy five-seat limits, putting lives at risk.
The authorities are taking steps to address this crisis, but it's a daunting task. Police have acquired body cameras and breathalysers, and are pushing for reforms to the driver licensing system, including docking points for offenders and revamped training programs that highlight the dangers of reckless driving.
But what about the drivers themselves? How can they be expected to change their behavior when the roads are treacherous and enforcement is weak? The answer lies in education and awareness. Driving instructors like Muvhevhi are on the frontlines, teaching students not just how to drive but also how to survive on Zimbabwe's deadliest roads.
As I concluded my investigation into this crisis, one thing became clear – the fight for road safety in Zimbabwe is far from over. It will require a collective effort from authorities, drivers, and pedestrians alike to turn the tide against reckless driving and restore order to Africa's most treacherous highways.
But there is hope. With every life saved, every accident prevented, we move closer to creating safer roads for all. As Muvhevhi so aptly puts it, "Survival is key." Let us join forces to ensure that Zimbabwe's drivers – and their passengers – can navigate the country's roads with confidence, knowing they're protected by a culture of safety and responsibility.
The battle may be long and arduous, but with every step forward, we inch closer to a future where driving in Zimbabwe is not a death sentence. The time for change is now. Will you join us on this journey towards safer roads?
