Today I want to put my concerns to the Minister Lesego Motsumi, whose portfolio covers the roads. She is not the only one as is the careless livestock owners who don't have any sense of value for their livestock and human life. The Minister must as a matter of utmost urgency introduce laws to put this scourge to an end. I can't remember a day that passes without an accident reported on our roads. How do we expect to encourage foreign investments when people die like flies on our roads? Surely it does not mean the un-safety of our roads is not known near and far. Road accidents especially involving stray animals have left behind broken souls because of loss of life, financial depression to both government and individuals, and damage to property, I must not forget the reputation the country suffers as well. Twice I have been a victim, so I am writing from experience. Some of my family members, friends and colleagues have been victims too. In the course of all these there has been pain, loss of life, property and nearly lucky ones have remained maimed for life.
Many at times I take visits to our neighbour, the Republic of South Africa, and I have never ever come across stray livestock on their roads simply because I think they have stricter laws governing livestock keeping and their roads are properly fenced off.
I therefore call upon the Minister and everyone concerned to introducing laws that will severely punish both livestock owners and careless driving on our roads. I suggest that we replace the existing fences with taller and better quality ones. I suggest that stray livestock be confiscated and heavy penalties be imposed on culprits.
Lastly, let me compliment men and women who spend sleepless nights driving away livestock from our roads - this is far from being enough but it is something worth noting. As I am the usual commuter to and from work along these roads, every time I get into my car I fear for my life by anyway thanks God I am still around to put my concerns to all and sundry.
Something must be done or forever everyone will perish.
Concerned person
