By Fanuel Chinowaita
Mutare, 11 May 2026 – Zimbabwe Republic Police and Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe today conducted a joint road safety awareness campaign in Mutare ahead of schools reopening, urging motorists and parents to prioritise the safety of children travelling back to school.
The campaign moved from Sakubva to the Mutare central business district, where officers and road safety officials addressed parents, students and transport operators on safe travel practices.
Acting Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka said reckless behaviour on the roads continued to claim lives.
“Overloading is causing accidents and people are dying,” said Chinyoka. “Drivers must stop overspeeding and improve customer care.”
He also urged parents and passengers to play their part by speaking out against dangerous driving.
“Parents must tell drivers not to speed. Those who encourage drivers to speed are not allowed because they are putting lives in danger,” he said.
Chinyoka said with schools reopening, the safety of children must come first.
“Since it is back to school, make sure that children are safe,” he said.
At Mutare Computers, police also warned parents and travellers to guard against theft.
“To those buying goods, let us be vigilant. There are many thieves roaming the streets,” said Chinyoka.
He urged travellers to avoid illegal transporters commonly known as mishikashika.
“Those travelling must avoid mishikashika and board buses that are not overcrowded. Write names on bags so they do not get misplaced,” he said.
The same safety message was later delivered at the Old Rank bus terminus, where police also warned against drug and substance abuse.
“Police say no to mutoriro,” said Police referring to crystal meth abuse.
Officials from Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe added that parents hiring transport for children should ensure drivers are at least 30 years old, medically fit, possess defensive driving certification, have a minimum of five years’ experience and hold valid driver’s licences.
The council says it exists to reduce deaths, injuries and property damage on Zimbabwe’s roads through education, training and research.
The Mutare campaign comes as authorities intensify nationwide road safety awareness drives during school opening periods.
Last year, police said they would heavily deploy officers on roads to protect pupils returning to school.
