By Phesheya Kunene
MBABANE – A new chapter in road safety has been written today as the Ministry of Public Works and Transport officially unveiled the country’s first-ever Mobile Alcohol Evidence Truck, signalling a bold and proactive step toward safer roads in Eswatini.
The state-of-the-art mobile unit, donated by Eswatini Beverages, is designed to support the fight against alcohol-related road traffic accidents by enhancing law enforcement’s ability to conduct on-the-spot breathalyser tests and compile reliable evidence. This generous donation represents a private-sector commitment to national safety and social responsibility.
During the handover ceremony held this morning at the Ministry’s headquarters, stakeholders applauded this milestone initiative aimed at curbing alcohol-induced road traffic accidents.
The launch comes on the heels of encouraging data showing a 6.5% decrease in alcohol-related road traffic accidents for the period January to May 2025 compared to the same period in 2024.
According to police statistics, the number of drunk driving incidents dropped from 1 456 in early 2024 to 1 362 in 2025, reflecting the impact of combined enforcement, public awareness, and community engagement.
Positive Trend in Fatalities
Most notably, fatalities caused by drunken driving have seen a significant decline. In 2024, 19 deaths were linked to alcohol-related accidents between January and May. In 2025, this number decreased to 8 deaths during the same period. Pedestrian deaths, which accounted for the majority of fatalities, have also declined, from 11 in 2024 to 6 in 2025. This progress, although hard-earned, gives renewed hope that the nation is steadily moving toward safer streets.
“We are responding to the current crisis and building a resilient system that protects future generations,” a ministry spokesperson said. “The Mobile Alcohol Centre will enhance our roadblock efficiency, reduce delays, and help us carry out more targeted alcohol testing across regions.”
The Numbers Behind the News
A comprehensive review of accident statistics from the Ministry reveals that alcohol-related accidents make up an average of only 3% of all road accidents annually, but their consequences can be disproportionately severe. Out of 39 fatal accidents recorded in 2025 to date, 8 were due to drunken driving—a stark reminder of the ongoing risks.
The new Mobile Alcohol Evidence Truck will not only provide on-the-spot alcohol testing but also act as an educational platform, offering drivers key information on responsible behaviour and the dangers of impaired driving.
A United Stand for Safer Roads
The Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) commended the donation and pledged increased cooperation and vigilance on the roads. REPS officials highlighted that two female pedestrians aged between 55 and 60 were among the victims of this year’s alcohol-related accidents, underscoring the broader social impact of reckless driving.
As Eswatini embraces this innovative safety tool, the message is clear: every life matters, and every effort counts. With public and private partners working hand in hand, the nation moves forward toward safer roads, safer communities, and a culture of accountability.
#PositiveEswatini #SafeRoadsNow
