Department launches Women’s Month Traffic Safety Activities

The Department of Transport and Public Works launched its Women’s Month traffic law enforcement and education activities in Somerset West on 4 August 2015.

On the day, various roadblocks were conducted by female traffic officers on the R102 between Somerset and Firgrove, the N2 Somerset West weighbridge and mall, as well as on Baden Powell Drive. Road safety officers also engaged with road users, providing safety tips and handing out pamphlets.

Activities planned for Women’s Month will focus on:

• Enhancing road safety initiatives;
• Attending to the needs of the most vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians;
• Managing social outreach activities within communities;
• Supporting family members who have lost loved ones in accidents;
• Presenting learners’ licence classes to the unemployed and senior citizens in different communities;
• Distributing road safety pamphlets in public spaces and at schools; and
• Participating in fitness and sports events with operational partners.

Brackenfell Traffic Centre Chief Nolubabalo Sobekwa says female traffic officers are excited to celebrate the beauty, commitment and privilege of being a woman in traffic law enforcement and road safety. “Our operations will be monitored and evaluated, and we are looking forward to make a difference to road safety. We will not tolerate reckless driving, or drinking and driving on roads. Pedestrian safety is one of our biggest operational challenges,” she said.

Provincial Traffic Chief Kenny Africa added that a number of traffic operations led by women have yielded positive results in recent years. “We are confident that upcoming operations and activities will make a difference and touch the lives of many. We cannot tackle road carnage on our own. All road users should exercise caution and take all basic safety measures,” said Africa.