The Government has renewed its commitment to improving road safety and reducing traffic accidents through the commissioning of a new fleet of operational vehicles and equipment for the Vehicle Inspectorate Department (VID). The initiative, rolled out on Friday, marks another significant step toward strengthening Zimbabwe’s capacity to enforce transport regulations, curb road carnage, and enhance compliance among motorists nationwide.
The newly commissioned equipment includes operational vehicles, brake roller testers, and breathalysers—tools expected to boost the VID’s effectiveness in monitoring vehicle fitness, enforcing regulations, and responding swiftly to emerging issues on the country’s expanding road network. Authorities say the initiative is part of a wider national strategy aimed at modernising road safety systems and fostering responsible road use, particularly as the festive season approaches.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Honourable Felix Mhona, emphasised that improving road safety remains a top government priority. He noted that the new operational vehicles will significantly enhance VID officers’ mobility and reach, enabling them to conduct frequent and more effective roadside inspections.
“The operational vehicles will enable our inspectors to be more agile, extending their reach into remote and underserved areas, and to conduct more spontaneous and effective roadside inspections,” Minister Mhona said. “This mobility is a force multiplier in our campaign against rickety, unroadworthy vehicles that pose a danger to all who share our roads.”
He added that the introduction of brake roller testers represents one of the most technologically advanced upgrades to the VID’s inspection capabilities. These devices, he explained, allow inspectors to evaluate a vehicle’s braking system with scientific accuracy, ensuring that roadworthiness checks are consistent, objective, and less susceptible to human error or misconduct.
Government Steps Up Road Safety by Upgrading VID Operations
“Further, we have the advanced brake roller testers. The brake system is arguably the most critical safety component of any vehicle,” said Mhona. “These testers provide objective, data-driven, and irrefutable evidence of a vehicle’s braking capability. They eliminate guesswork, prevent corruption, and ensure that every vehicle that passes through our inspection stations meets a stringent, scientifically verified standard.”
The Minister noted that faster, more accurate inspections will benefit both commercial and private motorists through reduced waiting times—an efficiency that supports overall economic productivity. With improved systems, officers will be able to process more vehicles each day while maintaining strict safety protocols.
The launch of breathalysers is also expected to help curb cases of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, a major contributing factor to fatal accidents. Breathalysers will empower inspectors and law enforcement officers to identify impaired drivers early and take action before tragedies occur.
Stakeholders in the transport sector have welcomed the initiative, expressing optimism that the new equipment will help bring stability and safety to Zimbabwe’s roads, particularly during peak travel periods.
Greater Harare Association of Commuter Operators Secretary General, Mr Ngoni Katsvairo, described the commissioning as a timely and positive development. “We are happy that the government has commissioned this equipment and we are confident this will go a long way in reducing road traffic accidents,” he said.
Zimbabwe National Organisation of Associations and Residents Trust national chairperson, Mr Shalva Chikomba, also praised the government’s efforts, noting that improved mobility for VID officers will enhance the removal of abandoned and unroadworthy vehicles from the roads. “The coming in of these tour trucks will help in bringing sanity because there are a number of vehicles which are being left dumped on our roads. Breathalysers are also going to curb the issue of those people who drive under the influence of drug and substance abuse,” he said.
Zimbabwe United Deregulated Commuter Operators president, Mr Fredrick Maguramhinga, echoed the sentiments, highlighting the urgent need to address dangerous driving behaviours. “Today, the government has commissioned this equipment, which is critical in bringing sanity to our roads. We have been facing challenges of drivers who drive under the influence of alcohol, so if they are being tested, we are convinced of a reduction in road traffic accidents,” he said.
The government has also been rolling out a series of infrastructure upgrades and technological interventions to reduce accidents and improve traffic management. These include the installation of surveillance cameras at busy intersections, the construction of new roads, and the rehabilitation of existing ones. Officials say these efforts, combined with modernised VID operations, will contribute to a safer and more efficient transport environment.
With the festive season approaching—a period traditionally associated with high traffic volumes and increased risk—the government is urging motorists to cooperate with inspectors, adhere to safety regulations, and prioritise responsible driving. The newly deployed equipment, authorities believe, will play a crucial role in supporting these goals and ultimately saving lives.
Source- ZBC
