By Isaac Jim & Benedicto Maguda:
The increasing number of road accidents involving motorcycle taxi operators has triggered the Malawi Coalition for Kabaza Stakeholders Association (Macokasa) to launch a Kabaza awareness campaign focused on road safety.
The initiative follows a similar campaign by the Malawi Orthopaedic Association, which concluded on September 18 in Blantyre.
At an event held in Makheta Township in Blantyre on Thursday, Macokasa National Chairperson Moses Michael Mwalabo said the association recognises the urgent need for the initiative.
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“We aim to remind Kabaza operators of the importance of adhering to road safety rules, such as carrying only one passenger, wearing crash helmets, reflectors and appropriate footwear instead of sandals or slippers,” Mwalabo said.
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He reassured motorcycle taxi operators that the organisation is actively engaging with the government to lower registration fees and provide training across the country for the operators.
“The government has granted us a period of four to six months for motorcycle registration. After this period, the registration fees will revert to their previous levels.
“For example, Lifan motorcycles will be registered for K55,000, while larger motorbikes will require K77,000, ensuring every operator registers,” Mwalabo explained.
Regional Community Policing Coordinator for South West Division Memory Mgeni, praised Macokasa’s initiative and expressed optimism that it would serve as a reminder to Kabaza operators about the importance of traffic rules and regulations.
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She also cautioned motorcycle taxi operators against operating at night, highlighting the risks of being targeted by robbers posing as legitimate passengers.
“The motorcycle operators are often tempted by the prospect of earning large sums of money to transport someone at such hours, unaware that they might be dealing with criminals,” Mgeni warned.
Chairperson for the Kabaza Association in Blantyre, Kondwani Jimu, also commended Macokasa and the police for their efforts to raise awareness among motorcycle taxi operators.
He added that the timeliness of the campaign given the alarming rate of accidents, involving the operators was essential.
“I have witnessed severe accidents and have visited injured people at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, some of whom are in excruciating pain, while others face amputations or severe spinal injuries, leaving them unable to care for themselves,” Jimu said.
Macokasa has signed agreements with cities and district councils nationwide to restrict areas where motorcycle taxi operators are permitted to operate as a measure to reduce motorcycle accidents.—Mana
