Zimbabwe is grappling with a devastating road safety crisis that has escalated into a pressing public health concern.
The alarming surge in road traffic accidents and fatalities demands immediate attention and collective action to mitigate this growing epidemic.
Reports suggest that a staggering 28 159 road traffic accidents were recorded between January and June 2025, marking a stark increase from 25 968 during the same period in 2024.
Consequently, 870 fatal crashes claimed 1 088 lives, representing an 11% and 5% increase, respectively, from the previous year.
Evidence indicates that human error is the primary contributor to road accidents in Zimbabwe, accounting for approximately 90% of cases.
Speeding, distracted driving, reckless overtaking, driving under the influence of alcohol, and poor urban driving conditions are the main culprits.
These factors underscore the need for a multifaceted approach to promote responsible driving behaviours and improve road safety.
Despite the efforts by the second republic to rehabilitate, maintain, and construct roads, the increasing number of road accidents demands an immediate response to address the root causes of these incidents.
These road accidents have a profound impact on families and communities, causing irreparable emotional and economic distress.
The loss of lives and livelihoods is a heavy burden that can be mitigated through collective action.
Therefore, it is essential to recognise the human cost of road accidents in order to create a safer environment for all road users.
In fact, a comprehensive public health approach is required to address Zimbabwe’s road safety crisis, emphasising targeted campaigns, education initiatives, effective traffic management, and enforcement to deter reckless driving and ensure adherence to traffic regulations.
The road safety crisis in Zimbabwe is a public health emergency that demands immediate attention and collective action.
In this case, addressing the road safety crisis requires coordinated action to tackle root causes, encourage safe driving, and improve infrastructure for all.
It is imperative that the nation takes a proactive approach to road safety, sparing countless lives and fostering a culture of road safety that prioritises the well-being of all citizens.
Collective action will reduce the incidence of road accidents and create a brighter future for Zimbabwe.*Clever Marisa (PhD) is a social scientist and public health practitioner. The views expressed here are his own and do not necessarily reflect the views of his affiliated institution or any organisation.