Matebeleland Pulse Reporter
The Zimbabwe Republic Police has urged parents, school authorities, motorists and transport operators to prioritize the safety of learners as schools reopen for the 2026 second term.
In a press statement issued on 11 May 2026, the national police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the reopening of schools should be accompanied by heightened road safety awareness and stronger security measures at learning institutions.
He said parents and school authorities should ensure that learners do not travel at night, warning that this “exposes them to road traffic accidents and criminal activities.”
Comm Nyathi also called on transport operators and motorists to ensure that vehicles used to transport schoolchildren are roadworthy, properly insured and compliant with traffic regulations.
“Drivers should avoid speeding, reckless overtaking, overloading, driving under the influence of alcohol or dangerous drugs and should exercise caution when approaching pedestrian crossings near schools and other builtup areas,” he said.
The statement further warned public service vehicle operators against unsafe practices involving school transport.
“Public Service Vehicle operators are warned against overloading passengers and mixing goods or luggage with school children,” said Comm Nyathi
He also urged schools to strengthen on-campus security and to avoid keeping large amounts of cash on school premises, saying this could attract criminals.
“Parents and school authorities are advised to deposit school fees and other tuition-related fees through financial institutions. Keeping large sums of cash at school premises attracts criminal elements leading to armed robbery incidents,” the statement read.
The ZRP said it will continue carrying out roadblocks, traffic enforcement operations and patrols across the country during the school opening period.
“The Police will continue to conduct roadblocks, traffic enforcement operations and patrols throughout the country to maintain law and order,” said Comm Nyathi.
He also encouraged members of the public to report criminal activities and traffic violations through the nearest police station or the National Complaints Desk.
