Transport Minister Barbara Creecy has launched the 2025/2026 Festive Season Road Safety Campaign, emphasising the urgent need to reduce fatalities on South Africa’s roads as holiday travel ramps up.
The Transport Ministry has raised particular concern over pedestrian safety, noting that pedestrians remain among the most vulnerable users on the country’s roads.
The campaign follows a series of deadly public transport crashes in recent months, including major incidents in Limpopo in October and the Free State in November, which have highlighted ongoing risks.
With traffic volumes expected to surge ahead of the Christmas and New Year holidays, authorities will intensify operations in high-risk areas.
The campaign will also target major contributing factors such as speeding, unsafe road crossings and driving under the influence of alcohol.
Officials are urging both motorists and pedestrians to comply with traffic laws, saying responsible behaviour is key to preventing further loss of life.
Minister Creecy said the theme for this year’s initiative - “It Starts With Me” - reinforces the message that every road user plays a role in safety.
“Drivers, pedestrians and passengers make important choices on the roads every day. When we make the right choices, we arrive alive,” Creecy said.
“Our campaign is aimed at ensuring that each one of us makes those correct choices so we can enjoy the festive season and return home safely in January. To do this, we all have to play our part and act responsibly.”
The minister is expected to outline strengthened measures targeting drunk driving and improved pedestrian protection, particularly in residential areas where celebrations are expected throughout the holidays.
anita.nkonki@inl.co.za
Saturday Star