Harare, Zimbabwe – January 15, 2025
A traffic accident at the intersection of Sam Nujoma Street and Robert Mugabe Road in Harare this morning resulted in multiple injuries. The incident involved a commuter omnibus attempting to overtake a City of Harare refuse compactor. Eyewitnesses report that the omnibus was speeding to beat a red light when it collided with the compactor, causing it to swerve off the road and injure several passengers.
Eyewitness Accounts
Ms. Dorcas Siziba, present at the scene, stated, “When we arrived to help, the passengers were trapped in the kombi, and we could not push the truck until we called for help and managed to release the passengers.” Another onlooker, Ms. Betty Ngwerume, commented on the broader issue of non-functioning traffic lights in the city, saying, “We need to give way to each other when traffic lights are not working. Most traffic lights are not working, but the drivers are not exercising caution.”
Emergency Response
Emergency services responded promptly, providing first aid to the injured before transporting them to Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals. The refuse compactor sustained minor damages, and no injuries were reported among its crew.
Traffic Light Malfunctions in Harare
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about traffic light malfunctions in Harare. Many intersections suffer from non-functional traffic signals, leading to increased accidents and traffic congestion. Factors contributing to this issue include vandalism, theft of components, and delayed maintenance. In some cases, solar panels and batteries have been stolen, rendering the lights inoperative.
Call for Caution
Authorities urge motorists to exercise increased caution, especially at intersections with malfunctioning traffic lights. The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) emphasizes the importance of adhering to traffic regulations to prevent accidents. Pedestrians are also advised to use designated crossing points and remain vigilant when navigating the city’s roads.
Conclusion
The collision at Sam Nujoma Street and Robert Mugabe Road underscores the critical need for improved traffic light maintenance and responsible driving behavior in Harare. Addressing these challenges is essential to enhance road safety and reduce the frequency of such accidents in the future.
