“Puma Energy Launches ‘Be Road Safe Africa’ for Child Road Safety”
… Chababo says the campaign will enhance road safety for primary school going children
By Francis Maingaila
Lusaka, Zambia24 (15-03-2024) – Puma Energy Zambia, in collaboration with organizations like Amend and the Zambia Road Safety Trust, has launched the ‘Be Road Safe Africa’ campaign to enhance road safety, especially among primary school children who are at a higher risk of accidents.
This initiative is in line with global objectives, including the ‘Second Decade of Action for Road Safety 2021-2030. With over 2,000 recorded road traffic fatalities in 2023, a significant portion involving children, the campaign targets primary schools in high-risk areas, notably in Lusaka Province.
Patricio Chababo, Managing Director at Puma Energy Zambia, emphasized the company’s commitment to road safety by integrating the ‘Be Road Safe Africa’ campaign into its corporate social responsibility strategy.
He stressed the critical need for global action, particularly highlighting the vulnerability of youth, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa, where child pedestrians face heightened risks.
Chababo outlined a focused strategy, targeting primary schools situated in road accident hotspots, recognizing their pivotal role in shaping future generations.
He positioned #BeRoadSafe as a comprehensive platform aiming to create a safer environment for children through education and advocacy, emphasizing collaboration with organizations like Amend and the Zambia Road Safety Trust to engage communities and implement effective road safety measures.
Additionally, Chababo highlighted the use of technology, such as In-Vehicle Monitoring Systems, to proactively mitigate road accident risks, showcasing innovation in road safety efforts.
Chababo acknowledged the crucial support of government partners in realizing road safety initiatives, underscoring the importance of collaboration between public and private sectors.
He encouraged collective action towards a safer future for children, communities, and the nation, emphasizing the ongoing commitment to road safety beyond the launch event.
Through educational programs, interactive activities, and community involvement, the campaign provides comprehensive empowerment for young road users.
At the inaugural launch of the Puma Energy Be Road Safe Africa campaign, Honourable Frank M. Tayali, Minister of Transport and Logistics, addressed the significant challenge posed by road traffic accidents in Zambia, particularly impacting the youth, with nearly 2,000 lives lost annually.
He emphasized the urgent need for collective action to address the road safety crisis and commended Puma Energy Zambia Plc, sponsors, and implementing partners for launching the campaign, which aligns with global road safety initiatives.
He also praised the initiative for its objectives, including raising awareness and enhancing safety for children on the roads.
Recognizing the importance of effective road safety education in reducing accidents and fostering responsible road usage, he underscored road safety as a fundamental concern for citizens’ welfare, especially the younger generation, and appreciated Puma Energy’s collaboration with specific schools to bring about tangible change in road safety.
Additionally, he encouraged stakeholders to actively participate and endorse the campaign, calling for unity and commitment to creating safer roads for everyone, particularly for children.
Neema Swai, Project Manager at Amend, outlines various components of the campaign, including road safety education, drawing competitions, establishment of ‘Be Road Safe’ clubs, and the innovative Kids’ Court program.
Building on successful implementations in other African nations, the campaign seeks to address the root causes of road traffic accidents and promote collaboration among stakeholders.
Puma Energy Zambia’s initiative demonstrates corporate responsibility in addressing road safety and aims to establish a safer and more accountable road transport environment in Zambia and beyond.