By James Kamala
Defensive
driving, a crucial practice for reducing fatal road accidents, is not just an
idealistic concept but a reality that can save lives if drivers and authorities
commit to learning and following road safety regulations.
One
living example of this safe driving philosophy is 82-year-old Mzee Solomoni
Bukambu, a seasoned driver who has been on the road for 46 years without a
single accident. His remarkable driving record serves as a testament to the
power of defensive driving in preventing accidents and saving lives.
Bukambu,
who resides in Bukoba, Tanzania, began his driving career in 1975 after being
trained in plumbing, electrical installation, simple mechanics, and driving.
He
was employed by the Evangelical Lutheran Church (ELCT) in Tanzania after
arriving from Hamburg, Germany. During his nearly 30 years of service, Bukambu
drove various vehicles, from old-fashioned station wagons and LandRover to
modern Hilux and Land Cruiser cars.
In
the early years of his career, the roads in East Africa were mostly unpaved and
in poor condition. Vehicles were often old and difficult to drive, requiring
extra caution to safely reach their destinations.
Despite
these challenges, Bukambu became an expert in defensive driving, taking all
necessary precautions to avoid accidents. His work took him far beyond the
streets of Bukoba, to cities like Kigali, Uganda’s capital Kampala, and
Nairobi, as well as across Tanzania, from Mwanza to Dodoma.
Now,
a father of four, Bukambu still drives his saloon car and occasionally takes
short-term driving assignments. He attributes his accident-free driving career
to God’s grace, but he also emphasizes the importance of adhering to road
safety principles.
"All
of these years of defensive driving, it is due to God's grace," says
Bukambu in his native Haya language. "I am grateful for his mercies."
Bukambu's
commitment to safe driving isn't just luck. His decades of experience have taught
him the importance of avoiding distractions and making decisions that
prioritize safety over speed. For example, he advises drivers to never use
their mobile phones while on the road.
“Never
use your mobile phone while driving,” Bukambu warns. “It reduces your
concentration, and when you're distracted, you risk the lives of everyone on
the road. Either focus on driving or pull over to safely attend to your phone.”
He
also explains the dangers of rushing to overtake another car, especially when
there’s a red light or a sign of a possible hazard ahead.
“If
you see a red light or the car in front of you is stopping, don’t rush to
overtake. Slow down and check the situation. There could be an obstacle ahead,
and speeding past could lead to a crash,” Bukambu advises.
He
also believes that one of the key principles in defensive driving is starting
the journey early. By doing so, drivers can avoid rushing, which can lead to
accidents caused by stress and a lack of concentration.
“When
you’re driving to a destination, always give yourself enough time,” he says.
“If you're heading to the airport, for example, leave earlier so you’re not
rushing. Panic and last-minute speeding often lead to accidents.”
Another
critical aspect of defensive driving is recognizing when you're too tired to
continue safely. Bukambu stresses the importance of taking breaks if you feel
drowsy.
“If
you feel tired or sleepy, stop and rest,” he advises. “Never continue driving
when you are exhausted. It’s better to take a break than risk your life and
others’ lives.”
Bukambu,
a devout Christian, is cautious about consuming alcohol before driving. While
he enjoys the occasional drink, he strictly avoids alcohol when he knows he
will be driving. He advises drivers who have consumed any amount of alcohol to
avoid driving for at least four hours to ensure the alcohol is out of their
system.
"Don’t
underestimate how much alcohol you’ve had," Bukambu warns. "If you've
been drinking, don’t drive. Wait until you’re sure you're sober."
His
experiences driving in both Germany and East Africa have reinforced his belief
that safe driving is all about adhering to rules and regulations. In Germany,
where he first learned to drive, authorities would confiscate a driver’s
license for any driving violation, including driving under the influence or
with a faulty vehicle. This strict approach, he believes, is key to reducing
accidents.
Bukambu
also shares an important lesson about the state of road infrastructure in
Tanzania and the rest of East Africa. Many accidents, he believes, are caused
by poorly maintained road signs or missing signage altogether. He advises
drivers to be cautious and not simply accelerate without paying attention to
their surroundings.
“Road
signs are important, and we need to make sure they’re always visible and in
good condition,” he says. “Don’t just rush forward. If the signs are missing or
unclear, slow down and stay alert.”
Reflecting
on his extensive driving career, Bukambu also suggests that the government
should raise the minimum age for public service vehicles and truck drivers. He
believes that drivers under 40 may be more prone to risky behaviors such as
speeding and using mobile phones while driving.
“I
believe that drivers should be at least 40 years old before they take on such heavy
responsibilities,” he explains. “At that age, people tend to be more cautious
and less likely to make reckless decisions on the road.”
Lastly,
Bukambu reminds drivers to always respect pedestrians, cyclists, and other road
users. He urges drivers to stop when pedestrians are crossing at marked areas
and to be patient with the elderly who may cross the road slowly.
“Driving
is not a race,” Bukambu emphasizes. “We all share the same roads, and we must
ensure everyone can travel safely.”
Mzee
Bukambu’s life and advice are a testament to the power of defensive driving.
His long, accident-free driving career offers invaluable lessons for all
drivers. By practicing caution, patience, and respect for others, we can all
contribute to making the roads safer for everyone.