The Harare Youth Transporters Association (HAYTA) is set to roll out a series of National Road Safety Symposiums across the country as part of efforts to curb road accidents and promote a culture of responsible road use.
The initiative comes at a time when stakeholders are intensifying campaigns aimed at reducing fatalities and injuries on Zimbabwe’s roads through education, awareness and compliance with traffic regulations.
Speaking in an interview, HAYTA Chairman Edmore Tirivanhu Gwengwe said the association is complementing Government efforts to improve road safety and modernise the transport sector.
He commended the Second Republic for implementing reforms that have strengthened the transport sector while creating opportunities for youths to participate in economic development.
“We applaud Government for prioritising road safety and transport sector reforms. The measures that have been introduced by the Second Republic are laying a strong foundation for a safer and more efficient transport system.
“As stakeholders in the sector, we believe it is our responsibility to support these efforts,” said Gwengwe.
He said the planned symposiums would bring together transport operators, motorists, road safety experts, law enforcement agencies, policymakers and members of the public to deliberate on practical solutions to road safety challenges.
“Road accidents continue to claim lives and cause immense suffering to families and communities. Through these symposiums, we want to create a platform where stakeholders can openly discuss challenges and identify sustainable solutions that can help reduce accidents,” he said.
Gwengwe said the symposiums would focus on responsible driving, road safety education, vehicle fitness, adherence to traffic regulations and accident prevention strategies.
“We want to cultivate a culture where every road user understands that safety is a shared responsibility. Drivers, passengers, pedestrians and transport operators all have a role to play in making our roads safer,” he said.
“Education remains one of the most effective tools in preventing accidents. When people understand the consequences of reckless driving and the importance of complying with road regulations, they are more likely to make responsible decisions,” added Gwengwe.
Beyond road safety advocacy, HAYTA continues to champion youth empowerment through active participation in programmes aimed at improving livelihoods and creating economic opportunities.
“We fully support Government initiatives that seek to empower young people through access to commercial vehicles, agricultural equipment and other productive assets. Such programmes are creating employment opportunities and helping young entrepreneurs build sustainable businesses,” he said.
“The vision of empowering youths economically is critical to national development. We encourage young people to take advantage of the various empowerment programmes being rolled out and position themselves as key contributors to economic growth,” said Mr Gwengwe.
He expressed confidence that the symposiums would contribute significantly towards building a safer transport environment while strengthening collaboration between Government, industry players and communities in promoting road safety nationwide.
