Batswana should unite against A1 fatalities
Mmegi Editor | Monday July 13, 2026 06:00
The A1 highway, stretching from Ramatlabama to Ramokgwebana, is the backbone of Botswana's transport network. It carries passenger buses, private vehicles, haulage trucks and cross-border commercial traffic linking Botswana with other SADC countries. Yet, despite its strategic importance, the road remains narrow, congested and increasingly dangerous.
Successive governments have acknowledged the need to upgrade the A1 into a dual carriageway. Promises have been made over the years, but little has changed on the ground while the death toll continues to rise. Travelling on this road has become a frightening experience, with many motorists feeling compelled to pray before embarking on a journey. No road in a peaceful country should inspire such fear.
The causes of crashes on the A1 are well known. Dangerous overtaking, speeding, heavy traffic, potholes and collisions with stray livestock have combined to create a deadly mix. The presence of animals on such a busy highway remains particularly worrying. Time and again, vehicles collide with cattle or donkeys before overturning or crashing into oncoming traffic, often with devastating consequences.
The recent tragedy in which nine people lost their lives after a bus accident along the A1 is yet another painful reminder that the status quo is unacceptable. Sadly, it is only one among many fatal crashes that have occurred on the highway. Behind every statistic is a grieving family, children who have lost parents, parents burying their children, and communities struggling to come to terms with preventable losses.
Government must now move beyond expressions of sympathy and take concrete action to deal with the matter decisively. As such, the upgrading of the A1 into a dual carriageway should be treated as a national priority rather than a long-term aspiration. Equally important is the erection of durable roadside fencing to keep livestock away from the highway, coupled with strict enforcement against owners who allow their animals to roam freely. Law e to enforcement agencies must also intensify patrols to curb speeding, reckless overtaking and drunk driving. At the same time, motorists have a responsibility to exercise patience, obey traffic laws and appreciate that no destination is worth risking lives for.
The continued carnage on the A1 is not inevitable. It is the result of challenges that are known and can be addressed through political commitment, investment and responsible road use. Botswana has mourned enough. The time for studies, promises and condolences has passed. The time for action is now. Every day of delay risks adding another name to the growing list of victims. Enough is enough.
Today’s thought
'It takes leadership to improve safety'- Jackie Stewart