Zimbabwe govt deploys ambulances at tollgates

The government has announced plans to station ambulances at tollgates and along major highways across Zimbabwe, aiming to improve emergency medical response and curb road accident fatalities.

This announcement follows recent police statistics showing a sharp increase in road incidents during the 2025 Easter holidays. According to the Zimbabwe Republic Police, 384 road accidents were recorded during this period, up from 286 in the same timeframe in 2024. While fatal accidents slightly declined from 26 to 21 and road deaths dropped from 27 to 24, injury cases rose from 159 to 178.

Speaking in an interview this week, Deputy Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development Joshua Sacco highlighted the importance of the ambulance deployment plan.

"The aim is to ensure swift medical attention for accident victims, particularly during peak travel periods. This initiative forms part of a broader effort to bolster emergency response systems, working closely with the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe and the Ministry of Health and Child Care. By placing ambulances at strategic points such as tollgates, the government hopes to reduce loss of life resulting from road accidents," Sacco said.

Sacco also revealed that funding for emergency response would be supplemented by collections from third-party motor vehicle insurance, which will support the purchase of ambulances and medical equipment for hospitals.

"In addition, the fund will provide assistance with funeral services for victims of fatal accidents," he added.

Though the ambulance deployment is still in the planning phase, Sacco expressed optimism about the progress of the broader road safety agenda.

"The Road Accident Fund has been a subject of advocacy for many years. I am pleased to report that the principles of this Bill were recently presented to Cabinet and approved," Sacco said.

The Road Accident Fund Bill, recently approved by Cabinet, is a key pillar in the government's strategy to drastically reduce road traffic deaths and injuries by 2030. The Bill aims to guarantee access to safe, affordable, and sustainable transport systems while strengthening road safety measures.

Once operational, the fund will revolutionise accident response by ensuring survivors receive immediate and appropriate medical care. It will also provide timely financial support for medical bills and funeral expenses, enhancing the capacity of emergency services and health systems to respond effectively.

The Bill further prioritises long-term rehabilitation and recovery for road traffic victims, acknowledging that the impact of accidents extends well beyond initial treatment.

Funding for the Road Accident Fund will come from motor vehicle insurance premiums and allocations from Treasury, designed to ensure sustainability without burdening taxpayers.

With these initiatives, the government aims to improve emergency medical care on Zimbabwe's roads and ultimately save lives through faster response times and better support for accident victims and their families.