Kabaza operators have been urged to adhere to road rules and regulations to prevent accidents as the festive season approaches.

On Tuesday, the Kabaza Association of Malawi, in collaboration with the police, conducted a sensitization campaign in Lilongwe to educate operators on road safety.

Kabaza Association President Joseph Petro said motorcycles are involved in most road accidents, placing a heavy burden on the health sector. 

He also advised operators to avoid working during odd hours to reduce the risk of attacks by armed robbers.

“We are urging operators to report any suspicious individuals, as many target Kabaza riders for transportation,” he said.

Association Secretary Leonard Masimbe reminded operators to register their motorcycles with the Directorate of Road Traffic and Safety Services before the deadline.

“Starting January, unregistered Kabaza motorcycles will be confiscated, as the subsidized registration period ends this December,” Masimbe warned. 

He added that registration numbers remain low, despite the government extending the period from July to December.

However, operator Pilirani Jambulosi from Area 25 cited economic hardships as the main reason for failing to register. 

Kabaza operators must pay K56,000 for motorcycles between zero and 100 CC, and K77,000 for motorcycles between 101 and 250 CC.

Meanwhile, the police have implemented measures to curb road accidents during the festive season. 

Kanengo Police spokesperson Gresham Ngwira said authorities will collaborate with stakeholders to promote adherence to traffic rules.

The government expressed concern over the increasing number of road accidents, noting that the health sector is overwhelmed with treating victims, mostly from motorcycle-related accidents.