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In a move aimed at strengthening road safety and victim support across Zimbabwe, Cabinet has approved the principles of the Road Accident Fund Bill, paving the way for a new framework to ensure swift and adequate medical and funeral assistance for victims of road traffic accidents.
The proposed legislation is expected to close critical gaps in the current insurance and emergency response systems by providing immediate financial recourse for accident-related emergencies. It will be primarily financed through Motor Vehicle Insurance premiums, along with other contributions that may be allocated by Treasury.
Speaking at a post-Cabinet briefing in Harare yesterday, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere outlined the objectives of the fund and the broader intentions behind the new Bill.
“Cabinet received and approved the Principles of the Road Accident Fund Bill,” said Dr Muswere. “The main objective of the Road Accident Fund Bill, which will emerge from the Principles, is to reduce deaths and injuries from road traffic accidents by 2030 through access to safe, affordable and sustainable transport systems as well as improving road safety for all.”
The Bill is expected to revolutionize the handling of post-crash emergencies by introducing a mechanism that ensures timely medical evacuation and care an area that has long been underserved under current insurance policies. Dr Muswere said existing insurance schemes fall short of guaranteeing emergency services for victims, leaving providers hesitant to act without upfront payment assurances.
“The Road Accident Fund Bill seeks to address the current post-accident management framework, with the existing insurance packages lacking provision for immediate evacuation of accident survivors to medical facilities,” he said. “Emergency services providers are reluctant to provide medical services in instances when payment for service is not guaranteed.”
The establishment of the Fund is also expected to enhance the operational capacity of emergency service providers and medical institutions to deliver faster and more effective care, potentially saving more lives in the aftermath of crashes.
“The current liability cover is inadequate to cater for medical and funeral expenses. The Road Accident Fund will place greater focus on enhanced responsiveness to post-crash emergencies in order to improve the ability of health and related systems to offer appropriate emergency treatment and longer-term rehabilitation for accident victims,” Dr Muswere added.
In his 2024 national budget presentation, Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube proposed that third party motor insurance be brought under government administration to better protect road accident victims and ensure that compensation and care are both timely and adequate.
Currently, third party motor vehicle insurance which is mandatory under the Road Traffic Act is handled by private insurers and offers basic protection covering death, injury, and property damage. However, the new fund aims to significantly expand the scope and speed of support delivered to accident victims.
“The Fund will provide immediate recourse to medical and funeral expenses, and enhance the capacity of emergency services providers and medical institutions to effectively respond to road accidents to save lives,” said Dr Muswere.
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