By Phesheya Ian Kunene
MBABANE – The official launch of the Festive Season Road Safety Campaign took place at the Mbabane Bus Rank, with a strong focus on enhancing road safety measures as the holiday season approaches.
Minister of Public Works and Transport Chief Ndlaluhlaza Ndwandwe praised government’s latest efforts to curb reckless driving, through the installation of traffic surveillance cameras at key points along public roads.
He described this measure, as a critical step in ensuring adherence to road safety laws and preventing accidents during the busy festive season.
“These cameras are a crucial tool in holding drivers accountable, ensuring that road rules are followed and ultimately saving lives,” said the Minister.
The Minister’s comments followed an announcement by Mbabane Mayor Thulani Mkhontfo, who revealed that efforts to install traffic surveillance cameras were being fast-tracked across the capital city. This initiative is expected to serve as a monitoring tool and deterrent to unsafe driving practices.
Reflecting on the broader vision for road safety, Minister Ndwandwe emphasised that an accident-free festive season would be the “best gift” for the nation. He urged all road users—drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists alike—to prioritise safety.
“The festive season should be a time of joy and celebration, not tragedy. I urge every citizen to take responsibility for their actions on the road and contribute to a safe environment for all,” he added.
Minister Ndwandwe noted that Eswatini’s initiatives align with the United Nations Decade of Action for Road Safety, which seeks to reduce traffic fatalities globally by 2030. He highlighted government investments in pedestrian walkways, improved driver education, and increased enforcement of traffic laws as key strategies to achieve this target.
The event also featured remarks from various stakeholders who reinforced the importance of road safety during the festive period:
- Mbabane Mayor Thulani Mkhonto: He stressed the importance of collaboration across sectors to tackle road safety issues effectively.
“Collaboration among all sectors is crucial to ensuring the safety of our roads, especially during such a busy time,” he said.
- Road Safety Council Chairman, Vusi Dlamini: He pointed out that irresponsible driving remains one of the leading causes of road accidents in the country.
“Fostering better driver behaviour and ensuring adherence to road regulations are key to saving lives,” Dlamini noted.
- Sihlangu Nhlabatsi, Deputy Chairperson of the Road Safety Council: Nhlabatsi shared alarming statistics, revealing that at least 12 people lose their lives each month due to road accidents. He emphasised the importance of visible policing and strict enforcement of traffic laws to curb fatalities.
“When drivers know they are being watched and that consequences are in place, they are more likely to drive with caution,” he explained.
Dr. Masitsela Mhlanga, Director of EPR Paramedics, highlighted the role of emergency services in responding to road accidents. He urged the public to cooperate with safety measures, ensuring a quicker, and more effective response to emergencies.
Road Safety and Tourism
Chunkie Dlamini, representing the Eswatini Tourism Authority, emphasised the link between road safety and tourism.
“Tourists who feel safe on our roads are more likely to return and recommend Eswatini to others,” she noted.
In conclusion, Minister Ndwandwe thanked all stakeholders for their continued efforts to promote road safety. He urged Emaswati to work together to make the festive season free from accidents.
“The best gift this nation can give me this Christmas is an accident-free season,” he concluded.
The campaign serves as a reminder to all citizens that safety on the roads is a shared responsibility and a crucial element in ensuring a joyful and peaceful holiday season for everyone.
