By Adonis Byemelwa
Home Affairs Minister Innocent Bashungwa (pictured) today 19th December 2024, has issued a safety warning ahead of the Christmas and New Year holidays, urging Tanzanians to prioritize safety on the roads and in public spaces.
In a viral statement, the minister raised concerns about the increasing number of traffic accidents and urged people to follow road safety regulations.
He pointed out that recent accidents, such as one on December 3 in Karagwe, Kagera Region, where seven people died and nine were injured, and another last night in Mikese, Morogoro, which claimed 15 lives and left eight others injured, are preventable.
Bashungwa stressed that reckless driving, speeding, overloading, and poor vehicle maintenance are significant contributors to road accidents. "These accidents are avoidable," he said, adding that those responsible for such negligence will face strict legal consequences.
The Minister also called on families to ensure their private vehicles are well-maintained and to avoid allowing untrained or unlicensed individuals to drive.
He warned against the dangers of leaving children unsupervised during the holidays, particularly in areas like beaches or recreational spaces. "We must protect our children and prevent avoidable tragedies," he urged.
Bashungwa commended the police, led by Inspector General Camillus Wambura, for their ongoing efforts to maintain peace and security in the country.
He announced increased patrols on highways, regular checks at roadblocks, and joint inspections with Tanroads to ensure safety on the roads.
The Minister also outlined the government’s commitment to tackling the problem of vandalism targeting critical infrastructure such as power lines, railways, and road signs.
He made it clear that such acts would not be tolerated and called for expanded operations to catch offenders nationwide.
With heavy rains affecting many regions, Bashungwa advised the public to exercise caution in flood-prone areas and to keep children away from dangerous water crossings.
He concluded by assuring Tanzanians that the country remains safe under President Samia Suluhu Hassan's leadership. He encouraged everyone to celebrate responsibly and wished the public a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. "Let’s ensure this holiday season is safe and enjoyable for everyone," he said.