Botswana: Minister Molale shares some lifesaving road safety tips, especially for those who will be travelling far and near to be with their families and friends.
The Easter holidays are supposed to be celebratory and triumphant but are often turned into sorrow by unforeseen tragedies such as deaths and injuries on the road as a result of road accidents.
The positive side to this is that road accidents can be prevented. Hence I am here to appeal to all road users during this holiday to be cautious and take responsibility to ensure safety on our roads, said Minister Molale.Â
Furthermore, he wished for “a safer and enjoyable Easter holiday. Let us make road safety a priority by observing the following tips:
• Plan your trips, and leave earlier when setting out on a long journey.
• Observe the speed limit – remember, SPEED KILLS!
• Make the smart choice – don’t drink and drive.
• Always wear your seatbelt.
• Be considerate to other road users
• Beware of fatigue – stop and rest during your journey. (every 2 hours)
• Stay alert –watch out for pedestrians, cyclists and animals along the road.
• Avoid all distractions while driving – if you have to use a cell phone, pull off the road.
• Always carry your license- don’t drive if you are not licensed.
• Do not drive under the influence of alcohol and drugs
Road Accidents Statistics
• From January 2023, the Botswana Police recorded 64 fatal accidents resulting in 88 deaths.
• Bagaetsho, losing 88 lives in three months is too much.
• This may mean children are left without parents/caregivers, which may burden remaining guardians.
• This also translates into economic loss whereby;
-the country looses minds which can contribute positively to the development of the country
-Loss of support to the affected
-Strains the limited resources that Motor Vehicle Accident Fund has
Conclusion
My ministry, together with other stakeholders such as Botswana Police, Motor Vehicle Accident Fund, and District Road Safety Committees, will be mounting road Blocks to disseminate information and ensure that road users adhere to safety rules.
On behalf of the Ministry of Transport and Public Works, I take this opportunity to wish Batswana a happy, safe and accident-free Easter holiday.