Deputy spokesperson for the Malawi Police Service, Harry Namwaza has urged road users to strictly adhere to traffic laws, as the country continues to wrestle with high rates of road accidents.
According to Namwaza, non-compliance by drivers and motorcyclists is the leading cause of accidents, with common violations including, overspeeding, reckless overtaking, overloading, drunk driving, and general disregard for road safety rules.
Namwaza revealed that while the total number of road accidents has decreased slightly compared to last year, the situation remains a concern.
He said motorcycle-related accidents are alarmingly on the rise, posing a threat to pedestrians.
“Last year, we recorded 2,627 road accidents in the first six months, of which 466 involved motorcyclists. This year, from January to June, we’ve recorded 2,024 accidents, with 485 involving motorcyclists,” Namwaza said.
He attributed the increase in motorcycle accidents to a lack of proper training among motorcyclists.
Namwaza called on the public to join forces with the police to reduce these numbers.
The police, he added, “are actively engaging the public, enforcing traffic laws, and using the media to educate citizens on road safety.”
By Mwai Likhomo, MANA
