ZIMBABWE FINALLY LAUNCH EMERGENCY ROAD REPAIR PROGRAM

Zimbabwe has launched an emergency road repair program after a public outcry over the high death toll on the country’s roads. The program is expected to ensure that the road challenge that has been facing the nation is seriously addressed.

Under former leader late president, Robert Mugabe, the nation’s roads has been in bad shape after years of neglect by the government.  

A 46 years old man named, Misheck Rujada who was hit by a motorist trying to avoid potholes, has welcome the effort to bring the road up to standard.

According to Rujada; “I think road repairs will drastically reduce road accidents,” As well as not speeding, and looking out for pedestrians because they are also human beings, only that they are poor. I think that is what is important.”

Zimbabwe’s government says it is aware of the complaints and recently introduced what it calls Emergency Road Rehabilitation Programme 2 (ERRP2) to ensure all roads are repaired. Officials say results should be visible by the end of the year.

Information Minister Monica Mutsvangwa said the program includes the upgrade of drainage systems to keep water off the roads.

According to Mutsvangwa, “The Cabinet wishes to inform the public significant progress was achieved in implementing the ERRP2 on the repair and construction of drainage structures as well as the reclamation of gullies and the repair of wash-aways, where the percentage completion of works exceeded 70%.”

Mutsvangwa also added that the government has released about US$20 million for the program, and more money will be allocated.

Meanwhile according to official statistics, On average, five people die every day because of accidents on Zimbabwe’s roads.

Jean Todt, the U.N. secretary-general’s Special Envoy for Road Safety, recently met with Zimbabwe officials to discuss improving the safety record.

“The U.N. secretary-general’s special envoy for road safety alluded that Zimbabwe has the opportunity to achieve the goal of reducing by half road traffic crash fatalities and injuries by 2030,” said Sirak Gebrehiwot who is the U.N. communications specialist in Zimbabwe.

Gebrehiwot noted that with increased political and financial commitments from all stakeholders, the country can turn this situation around.”

SOURCE: VOA

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