By Byron Mutingwende
The National Transport Drivers Association (NTDA) in partnership with Tehillar Christian Network has taken bold steps to engage stakeholders countrywide in contributing to reduction of road carnage.
Road carnage remains the top cause of death and in pursuit of mitigating the problem and complementing government efforts, the two institutions convened a preparatory meeting with its members ahead of an all-stakeholder symposium on transport management.
In her opening remarks at the meeting, Mrs Jotina Matanhire, the NTDA President said there was need to coordinate the various pick and drop points in Harare Central Business like the Simon Muzenda Bus Terminus, the Charge Office, Copacabanna and Market Square as well as other designated points.
“We are at an advanced stage in coordinating and mobilising drivers, commuter omnibus assistants and transport owners for the forthcoming transport industry all-stakeholder meeting.
“On this particular meeting, petitions and challenges bedevilling the transport sector will be addressed. This will involve the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe, the ministry of transport, ZRP Traffic Section, Harare City Council, drivers as other associations and unions in the transport sector,” Mrs. Matanhire said.
Reverend Sam Malunga, the Public Relations Coordinator of NTDA applauded government for various mitigating measures which have seen the reduction of road carnage through efforts by the Zimbabwe Republic Police, Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe and the role by other associations and unions.
The NTDA is calling on gender parity among transport drivers. Mrs Matanhire urged other women to acquire licences for heavy vehicles and buses. She brings on board a vast experience of driving over 30 years as a taxi driver in Harare. She is also a Board Member of the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe.