Road traffic accidents in Zimbabwe, influencing factors impact and strategies
Document type: mthesis
Download file(s):
455667 (1100 KB)
Abstract:
Zimbabwe has comprehensive road network linking the different parts of the country and providing access to neighbouring countries for imports and exports. The country is experiencing an increase in motorisation while roads have deteriorated resulting in increased road accidents. This study seeks to improve understanding of road traffic injuries (RTIs) and their impact as an agenda for public health. It highlights that RTIs are a safety problem and an equity public health issue. The perceived risk of fatal RTIs exceeds all other risks in the country (Andrews, 2011). The productive age group is mostly affected with more males dying than females. This study is based on peer reviewed and grey literature. An active search for informal and formal information about RTIs was done. The Safe Systems Approach framework was adapted with some components from the Commission of Social Determinants of Health. Zimbabwe’s key risk factors that contribute to RTIs include reckless driving, violation of traffic laws, damaged vehicles, and bad roads. The country has basic legislation for road safety that needs to be reviewed, e.g., speed limits are faster than the global recommendations. There is inadequate enforcement of existing road safety laws, corruption and poor data collection and recording. Those injured face challenges to access health care. Accurate RTI data collection and recording is needed for designing strategies and understanding RTIs risks. Research should be done to establish knowledge gaps on RTIs. Public transport should be improved to achieve road safety for passengers. Country should establish universal national health insurance to improve access to health care.
Authors:
Muvuringi, M.P.
Country:
Zimbabwe
Category:
Research
Department:
Development, Policy and Practice
Institute:
KIT - Royal Tropical Institute
Keywords:
disasters and emergencies
,
infrastructure
,
health
,
human security
Language:
eng
Organization:
KIT - Royal Tropical Institute
Organization:
VU - Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
PAGE:
ix, 62
Place:
Amsterdam
Publisher:
KIT - Royal Tropical Institute [etc.]
Year:
2012
Region:
East Africa
Right:
© 2012 Muvuringi
Subject:
Infrastructure, Transport and Urban Development
Title:
Road traffic accidents in Zimbabwe, influencing factors impact and strategies
Training:
Master in International Health (MIH)