Govt launches accident fund to tackle road carnage
THE government has unveiled a bold, State-led initiative to tackle the country’s escalating road safety crisis, with officials presenting the Road Accident Fund Bill as the most ambitious transport reform in decades.
The Transport and Infrastructural Development ministry launched nationwide consultations on Monday at the Bulawayo Rainbow Hotel, bringing together government officials, insurers, transport operators, emergency services, civil society groups and the public. The high-profile event highlighted the economic and operational stakes of the fund, which could reshape the transport sector.
The fund is designed as a State-managed compensation pool, financed through levies on motorists and vehicle owners. It will provide rapid support to accident victims, covering medical treatment, rehabilitation and other post-crash expenses, while private insurers continue to cover vehicle and property damage.
Officials say the fund is intended to streamline claims, reduce insurance backlogs and modernise post-crash management, offering predictability for businesses and citizens alike.
Transport and Infrastructural Development minister Felix Mhona warned of the human and operational toll of Zimbabwe’s roads:
“According to the 2022 Road Safety performance review, in Zimbabwe over 35 000 crashes occur annually, claiming at least five lives everyday. This translates to over 1 800 deaths and more than 10 000 injuries each year. The Road Accident Fund Bill is our solid commitment and the right direction towards establishing a robust post-crash management regime.”
Mhona presented the fund as a collaborative reform, urging stakeholders to engage fully.
However, concerns persist over funding. Many participants argued that the government’s proposed 35% allocation is insufficient, warning that underfunding could undermine RAF’s effectiveness. Ministry officials highlighted that the fund is intended to complement, not replace, private insurance, maintaining market stability while ensuring victims are compensated.
Participants emphasised the importance of operational priorities including fully-equipped ambulances, efficient claims-processing systems and enhanced ministry resources to handle high volumes of claims. Analysts stress that these measures are vital for the fund’s financial and operational sustainability.
Civil society groups welcomed the initiative but cautioned that strong governance and independent oversight are essential to prevent mismanagement.
But, if implemented successfully, the fund could stabilise the insurance market, reduce delays in compensation, and improve emergency response infrastructure, with direct economic consequences for transport, logistics and healthcare sectors.
Experts also suggest it can be a template for public-private social protection schemes across emerging markets.
NewsDay
