Zimbabwe cabinet approves Road Accident Fund Bill

The Zimbabwean Cabinet has approved the principles of the Road Accident Fund Bill, a landmark legislative step aimed at improving emergency treatment, medical care, and funeral assistance for road traffic accident victims across the country.

The proposed fund, which will be financed primarily through Motor Vehicle Insurance premiums, is expected to close critical gaps in the current post-crash response system and strengthen the country's overall road safety strategy in line with the goal to reduce traffic-related deaths and injuries by 2030.

Announcing the development during a post-Cabinet media briefing in Harare on Tuesday, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere said the fund would play a pivotal role in providing immediate medical attention and support to victims.

"Cabinet received and approved the principles of the Road Accident Fund Bill," Dr Muswere said. "The main objective is to reduce deaths and injuries from road traffic accidents by 2030 through access to safe, affordable, and sustainable transport systems and by improving road safety for all."

He said the new fund is intended to reform the current post-accident management framework, which has often left accident victims vulnerable due to the limited scope of existing insurance schemes.

"Existing insurance packages lack provision for immediate evacuation and treatment of accident survivors. As a result, emergency service providers are often reluctant to act where payment is not guaranteed," Dr Muswere added.

The proposed Road Accident Fund will not only cover emergency medical and funeral expenses, but also support longer-term rehabilitation for accident victims. It is also expected to enhance the capacity of emergency service providers and health institutions to promptly respond to road traffic accidents.

"The current liability cover is inadequate. The Fund will improve responsiveness to post-crash emergencies and strengthen the health system's ability to deliver appropriate care," Dr Muswere said.

The initiative aligns with earlier proposals made by Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube in the 2024 national budget, which suggested that third-party motor insurance be administered by the government to ensure timely and adequate compensation for accident victims.

Currently, third-party motor insurance  -  mandated under the Road Traffic Act  -  is provided by private insurers and offers limited coverage for death, injury, and property damage. The Road Accident Fund is expected to expand these provisions significantly.

As road traffic injuries continue to pose a major public health concern, particularly along Zimbabwe's major highways, the government says this fund will be a critical tool in improving road safety outcomes and ensuring dignified support for victims.