Driving instructors in Zimbabwe teach students to navigate dangerous roads

Driving instructors in Harare now focus on survival and defensive driving as Zimbabwe records high road-fatality rates; officials say most accidents are caused by human error and police are pursuing licensing and enforcement changes.

Driving instructors in Harare have shifted lessons from exam preparation to survival and defensive driving. This change reflects concerns about high numbers of crashes and fatalities on Zimbabwean roads. Authorities and traffic officials say human error is the main cause of most accidents and that cellphone distractions contribute to a portion of deaths. Police report they have added body cameras and breathalyzers and are pressing for a review of the driver licensing system and training programs. Key points: - Instructors now emphasise survival skills and how to adjust to unsafe behaviour by other road users. - Officials report frequent crashes and high fatality rates; the World Health Organization estimates nearly 30 deaths per 100,000 people in Zimbabwe. - The Traffic Safety Council says about 94% of accidents are caused by human error and that cellphone distractions account for about 10% of deaths. - Police have introduced body cameras and breathalyzers and are advocating a review of the driver licensing system and driver training. Summary: The change in driving instruction highlights officials' concern about road safety and widespread risky behaviour on Zimbabwe's roads. Authorities have taken steps such as new equipment and proposals to revise licensing and training; timelines and detailed reforms remain undetermined at this time.