By Rex Mphisa
PRESIDENT EMERSON Mnangagwa has said African countries must harmonise legislations in respect of vehicular traffic as Africa moves towards a borderless continent to facilitate the movement of its people.
Mnangagwa said laws in Africa must be uniform allowing movement across different peoples of Africa to be smooth.
Mnangagwa was speaking when he conveyed his condolences to victims of Sunday’s horrific accident near Makhado, formerly Louis Tritchadt, 100 kilometres south of the Beitbridge Border Post.
As at the time of going to the Press 42 people had been confirmed dead in the accident and the bulk of people travelling of the bus from Port Elizabeth to Harare were Zimbabweans.
“It is with a deep sense of shock and grief that I learnt of the fatal road accident which claimed at least 40 people, who are drawn from different nationalities, including Zimbabwean citizens. That so many lives were lost in this incident once more urges us to ensure maximum diligence in the movement of our peoples regardless of borders and differences in legislation. Life remains precious whenever it is lost and in whatever country,” said Mnangagwa.
“In view of increased cross-border movements in our SADC region, facilitated by our collective efforts towards a borderless Community, it has become incumbent for traffic enforcement agencies across jurisdictions to collaborate more closely, and for our respective Governments to harmonise our legislations in respect of vehicular traffic. We appreciate and commend the support and cooperation of the Government of the Republic of South Africa in response to this tragic incident,” he said.
Mnangagwa said he had instructed the relevant Government Departments and Agencies in Zimbabwe to extend State Assistance towards the repatriation of the remains of Zimbabweans who perished in the accident.
He also said burials will receive similar assistance while the Government will meet all hospital bills for injured Zimbabwean nationals.