Texting while driving is against the law

ICWT Newsletter | Issue 48

By Trevor Ncube

Approximately five people die on our roads every day. Reflect on that for a moment. A staggering 77% of the fatalities and injuries are of economically active people. It is estimated that road accidents cost Zimbabwe 3% of GDP. For perspective, tourism contributes 4,25% to GDP.

These are sobering statistics. These deaths of our mothers, fathers, sisters and brothers are preventable. Everyone who uses his/her phone while driving is a potential contributor to this carnage.

According to research, high on the common causes of accidents are drivers who are distracted because they are texting, talking on the phone or eating. This is shocking behaviour. Phones have somehow turned into indispensable gadgets but have devastating consequences on driving.

But we all can do something about it. Are you prepared to be a change agent? The change begins with you and it begins with me. Stop using your phone while driving.

In Zimbabwe it is illegal to text and phone while driving and yet almost every driver on our roads does it. A breach of this law actually attracts a level five penalty or a fine, or both. Most of the time the police are nowhere to be seen to enforce this law and, on the few occasions they stop a driver for this, they are quickly given a bribe and walk away. This is common police behaviour whenever they catch a motorist breaching the Highway Code.

Many motorists seem to think seat belts are optional for themselves and their children. It is not a sign of love to have children in the front seat, on your lap or standing in between seats. Children should be in the back seat with their seat belts properly fastened.

We need heavy penalties for road infringements and a professional police force. Unlicensed drivers and all defective vehicles must be taken off our roads.

But in all this, where are the politicians? This is a serious campaign issue that MPs should articulate and ensure is sorted out. Recently we have seen a commonality of purpose regarding drugs and substance abuse; that should be the same approach to bad behaviour on the roads.

In Conversation with Dr. Allen Chiura

Dr Allen Chiura, Consultant Urological Surgeon, is back in Zimbabwe after practicing in the USA for 30 years. Dr Chiura overcame hurdles to be allowed to practice in Zimbabwe despite his superior qualifications and experience. He takes us through the challenges of being accepted in the health sector,his passion for culture and explains why every person above the age of 30 needs a health checkup at least once a year. We also get an opportunity to celebrate the legacy of his late father Enos Chiura, the former Delta Corporation CEO. Watch his episode here..

Audience Responses

From the Dr. Allen Chiura episode, our community had this to say:

@mziwandilendlovu:

Amazing life lessons here. Great way to start the week. Excellent choice Trevor

@TapiwaMunyanyi:

Interview was phenomenal here, always looking forward to the amazing conversations here. Would also love to see Tongayi Arnold Chirisa on the platform 🇿🇼

@zvikomboreromziti9514:

HI Trevor, I hope this message finds you well. First and foremost, I want to express my immense admiration for the incredible work you are doing. Your show has been a source of inspiration for me, and I am a big fan of the way you bring influential people together to share their insights with the world. As a young engineer in the construction industry, I have been following your show for some time now and have been impressed by the diverse range of guests you have had on. However, I have noticed that there has been a significant absence of professionals from the construction industry. As someone who is keen to grow and establish my profile in this field, I would love the opportunity to learn from the captains of the industry and hear their perspectives on the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities. I believe that your show has the potential to make a significant impact in our industry by bringing together the brightest minds in construction and showcasing their expertise to a global audience. I humbly request that you consider inviting some professionals from the construction industry to your show in the near future. Thank you for your time, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

@fadzayimaphosah3283:

great conversation, the power of good parenting shown throughout the conversation.

Coming Next: In Conversation with Joyce Chimanye

Don’t miss the next episode with Zimbabwe Fashion Designer ZuVVa Joyce Chimanye In Conversation with Trevor.

Podcasts

• Samantha Musa; radio & TV personality, entrepreneur and philanthropist.
• Dr. Solomon Guramatunhu; ophthalmologist and philanthropist.
• Godfrey Tsenengamu; Founder of Front For Economic Emancipation in Zimbabwe.