27 Sep 2023

Maun residents have been urged to prioritise road safety and behave responsibly as the festive season approaches. The concerning number of road fatalities has prompted the call for drivers to exercise caution and strive for safe journeys.

Kgosi Tawana Moremi II of Batawana expressed these concerns following the recent Walk for Safety event, which aimed to raise awareness about the importance of road safety.   

 The event was organized by the North West district leadership, in collaboration with local social clubs Mathaithai, Moremogolo, Eleven Men, and Easy Way, along with the Motor Vehicle Accident Fund (MVA). Kgosi Tawana commended the organisers of the event and hoped that people would heed the call for safer road practices.

  He highlighted the numerous benefits of physical activities, such as walking, which can act as a preventive measure against various diseases.

The North West District Commissioner, Mr Thabang Waloka, who served as the chief walker during the event, emphasized the need for a change in the community’s approach to road safety. He acknowledged that Maun, as a popular tourism area, experiences a high influx of travelers during the festive season, resulting in increased traffic on the roads.

Mr Waloka urged community members, including drivers, to alter their attitudes and behavior regarding road safety.

  He called for collaboration with relevant authorities to promote safer roads not only during the festive season but also throughout the year.    He cautioned against a relaxed attitude and driving under the influence of alcohol, noting that Maun police regularly encountered road accidents during the weekends.

  Mr Waloka emphasized the importance of striving to reduce errors on the roads, as they often lead to severe accidents and loss of lives. Mr. Cecil Mosojone, the Maun MVA branch manager, thanked the district leadership for their commitment to prioritize and promote safer road usage. He highlighted that road accidents, particularly involving pedestrians, were a serious concern in the district.

  Mr Mosojane provided statistics, indicating that from January to September 17 of this year, the police recorded 267 road accidents, slightly lower than the 273 recorded during the same period last year.

 In the past week, from September 10 to 17, there were 10 lives lost in road accidents, including four pedestrians, three drivers, and three passengers. Out of the total number, eight were men.

  Mr Mosojane cautioned men to adhere to speed limits and reduce drinking while driving, emphasizing that accidents have a significant impact not only on individuals but also on the national economy. The Chairman of the North West District Council, Mr. Itumeleng Kelebetseng, expressed his gratitude to the social clubs for their initiative in promoting safer roads.  He highlighted that social clubs are not solely focused on recreational activities like Sunday soccer but also have a positive impact on the community.

Mr Kelebetseng encouraged everyone to remain vigilant and drive safely as the Independence holiday approaches. ENDS