Police Record 5,000 Motorcycle Accidents This Year, Warn Riders Over Road Safety

By Pauline Ngozoh

The Zambia Police Service has stepped up efforts to reduce road traffic accidents through a road safety sensitisation programme targeting motorcycle riders in Lusaka.

The programme, held on October 30, 2026, at the Main Post Office in Lusaka, brought together key stakeholders in road safety and healthcare to educate riders on safe riding practices and the dangers of reckless behaviour on the roads.

Speaking during the sensitisation, Zambia Police National Road Safety and Awareness Coordinator, Senior Superintendent Elias Ngululu, urged motorcycle riders to observe traffic regulations and exercise caution.

He cautioned against over-speeding, overloading, riding without helmets and disregarding traffic signals, noting that such practices significantly increase the risk of accidents.

Mr. Ngululu disclosed that the Zambia Police Service has recorded approximately 5,000 motorcycle-related accidents from January to date, describing the figure as worrying. He attributed most accidents to negligence and non-compliance with traffic laws, emphasising that they are largely preventable.

Meanwhile, Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA) Regional Education Officer, Mr. Songolo Kabika, educated riders on the procedures for obtaining a motorcycle rider's licence. He explained that the process is straightforward and affordable, with a licence costing K348. He encouraged unlicensed riders to regularise their status to ensure they possess the necessary skills to operate safely.

And Dr. Kodwani Chirwa, a Consultant at the University Teaching Hospital (UTH) and representative of the Zambia Orthopaedic and Trauma Association, emphasised that preventing accidents is far better than treating their consequences.

He noted that UTH continues to record a high number of trauma cases resulting from motorcycle accidents, some leading to permanent disabilities or loss of life.

As part of the initiative, Police distributed reflective materials to motorcycle riders to improve their visibility, particularly at night.

Photo Source: Panos