By Petro Mkandawire
Blantyre City Mayor Isaac Jomo Osman on Monday engaged motorcycle taxi operators (Kabaza) on road safety measures.
The meeting which aimed to reduce road accidents involving motorcycle operators was attended by Blantyre City Council officials, Traffic Police, members of Malawi Coalition of Kabaza Stakeholders and Associations (MACOKASA) and motorbike operators.
During the meeting, participants agreed to establish motorbike ranks in the city, meet with bike owners, conduct motorbike registrations and enforce use of protective gears like clutch helmets.
The Mayor said poverty and unrealistic target amounts set by bike owners were contributing to the increase in road accidents.
“We want Blantyre to be clean and safe. The owners of the bikes are influencing accidents due to the target amounts that they demand.
“It’s time we take control and make our city proud by practising several measures like introducing city ranks, registering with Kabaza Association and use identical location plates to identify bikes from different areas,” said Osman.
He added that stiff punishment will be given to those who will not follow road safety measures and therefore encouraged Kabaza operators, road users and other stakeholders to work hand in hand in making Blantyre City clean and safe.
Vice Chairperson for Blantyre Kabaza Association, Mussa Magombo emphasized the importance of following road safety rules and practicing good health.
“I want to warn all of you here that punishment will be given to those who break the rules. As a motor bike operator, it is our duty to ensure that we use helmets, reflectors and use registered bikes,” said Magombo.
He therefore commended the Mayor for organising the meeting saying it encouraged motorbike operators to take full responsibility in preventing road accidents.
The Mayor has been holding a series of discussions with Kabaza operators within the city to promote road safety.
