Zambia: The chairperson of the Chadiza town Council, Richard Zimba, has donated safe jackets worth K5,000 to some motorbike riders and cyclists in the district. The organization has taken this step to make sure that the youngsters can be safe and secure.
Chairperson Zimba says the move is meant to increase the visibility of riders and reduce accidents of motorbikes and bicycles in the district. The administration of the city council has urged the riders to remain vigilant and prevent accidents.
“Most of the youths here are not safety conscious and drive without reflectors, thereby making it difficult to see and notice them, especially during night time,” he said.
Meanwhile, Zimba has appealed to the government to expedite the process of motorbike empowerment. Through the efforts of the administration, youths can benefit and remain safe. He revealed that only four young people benefited from the last consignment.
One of the motorbike riders, Joseph Phiri, said the gesture is commendable as it will now be much safer for them to ride during night time.
Meanwhile, Sakulani Nvula, a motorbiker in the district bemoaned that motorbikes are at risk of being stolen as it is the most targeted tool in most villages.
The motorbikers of the region have shared the issues and problems that they face with the people and administration of the district. Some bikers and cyclists spoke about safety concerns and violence issues.
Motorcyclist Nvula complained that some of their friends are usually beaten and left without motorbikes as they take customers to various villages from the Boma.
He has since appealed for help from the Police to quickly move in to protect him and his friends from harm and provide security.
The people of the Chadiza district are worried about the safety of the riders as well as the pedestrians. Accordingly, they have called on the authorities to take measures to prevent unfortunate accidents.
Last week, a woman was hit by a motorbike and died on the spot while the rider, who had no protective gear, sustained head injuries and was rushed to hospital.
