BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
MBABANE– As learners across the country begin the 2026 academic year, the Minister of Public Works and Transport, Chief Ndlaluhlaza Ndwandwe, has urged children to prioritise their safety every time they walk to and from school.
The Minister made the call while launching the Back-to-School Road Safety Campaign, which runs from February 12, 2026, until the end of March. He emphasised that the start of the school year is not only about books and classrooms, but also about protecting young lives on the country’s roads.
“As you walk to school and back home, always remember to use designated crossings such as zebra crossings and footbridges. Do not cross randomly between vehicles. Stop, look left and right, listen, and only cross when it is safe,” said Chief Ndlaluhlaza.
The campaign will see government officials visiting schools across the country to raise awareness about road rules and pedestrian safety, with learners being the primary focus.
Chief Ndlaluhlaza said while the Ministry continues to ensure that the road network supports safe mobility for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians, the reopening of schools often leads to increased traffic volumes and heightened risks, particularly for children.
“The life of a child is priceless, and one road crash is one too many. This campaign is not a formality; it is a national duty,” he stressed.
He also cautioned learners against distractions such as using mobile phones or wearing headphones while walking near traffic, urging them to remain alert at all times. In areas where sidewalks are not available, learners were advised to walk facing oncoming traffic and to keep a safe distance from the road.
The Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS), represented by Assistant Commissioner Jabulani Mandlopha on behalf of the National Commissioner, shared alarming statistics that underline the urgency of the campaign.
In 2024, a total of 507 children aged between 0 and 14 were involved in road traffic accidents. The number rose to 524 in 2025, and already in 2026, 28 children have been involved in road accidents.
“These alarming statistics underscore the urgency of our mission. Safety is a collective responsibility,” Mandlopha said.
He attributed the high number of incidents to factors such as children failing to use designated crossings, playing on the road, negligent driving and a lack of supervision. He added that the police would intensify road safety awareness campaigns and continue working closely with schools and communities to promote safer behaviour.
Motorists were also reminded that school zones are ‘life zones’, and not ordinary sections of the road. Drivers were urged to reduce speed, avoid dangerous overtaking and always give way to pedestrians at designated crossings.
Public transport operators were similarly called upon to exercise patience and responsibility, particularly during the busy back-to-school period. The Minister warned against unsafe practices such as overloading vehicles or transporting learners in private cars not approved for school transport.
“Public transport must not operate with reckless competition for passengers. No trip is worth a tragedy,” he said.
Regional Administrator Princess Tsandzile also expressed full support for the campaign, emphasising that learner safety remains central to national development.
“Every child deserves to travel to and from school safely. It is our collective duty as parents, communities and road users to make this a reality,” she said.
The Back-to-School Road Safety Campaign places learner pedestrian safety at the forefront, with government, law enforcement agencies and communities working together to ensure that every child reaches school safely — and returns home safely.
