WASHINGTON DC —
Police say 34 people have died in road accidents across Zimbabwe in the past three days, adding they fear the death toll this holiday season could far surpass that of last year.
The casualties include soccer legend Adam Ndlovu, who died on Sunday in a crash that seriously injured his young brother, Peter, along the Bulawayo-Victoria Falls highway.
Police said they are carrying out a massive road safety awareness campaign that began December 15 and runs through January 15.
The campaign includes handing out pamphlets to motorists on the road and running pro-safety messages in the media.
National traffic police spokesman, Tigere Chigome, told VOA that motorists should follow traffic regulations and be vigilant on the roads to minimize casualties.
Meanwhile, the Zimbabwe Football Association says it is rallying supporters and organising transportation to travel to Bulawayo for the burial of soccer legend Adam Ndlovu, who perished in a road traffic accident Sunday.
Ndlovu died alongside 24 year-old Nomqhele Tshili. His brother, Peter, suffered serious injuries and is in hospital in Bulawayo.
Soccer Supporters Association spokesman Spencer Manguwa said he is pleased to hear ZIFA plans to retire Adam Ndlovu’s number 13 soccer jersey out of respect for his contribution to the national team.
Manguwa said that the passing of Ndlovu brings to light the importance of honouring soccer stars while they are still alive.
ZIFA chief executive Jonathan Mashingaidze told VOA Studio 7 his organisation was in Bulawayo to assess how they could help the Ndlovu family, but would not comment on retiring the deceased’s jersey.
The late Adam Ndlovu is expected to be buried Saturday. According to the Herald newspaper ndlovu was divorced and is survived by two children.
