By Chisomo Phiri
Minister of Transport and Public Works Jappie Mhango has warned officials at the Directorate of Road Traffic and Safety Services (DRTSS) against engaging in corrupt practices during the enforcement of road safety regulations.
Mhango made the remarks in Lilongwe on Tuesday during his first meeting with DRTSS management since assuming office on Monday.
The minister said corruption weakens efforts to improve road safety and urged officers to carry out their duties professionally and impartially, particularly when handling road accidents involving motorcycle taxis, commonly known as kabaza.
“The department has a duty to enforce road safety laws without compromise. Corruption only exacerbates the challenges we face on our roads,” said Mhango
On his part,DRTSS Director Madalitso Kuyera said the directorate is implementing measures aimed at reducing opportunities for corruption, including the opening of additional service branches to ease congestion, which often creates conditions for malpractice.
Kuyera added that the directorate has also rolled out a number of interventions to reduce road accidents, with special emphasis on incidents involving kabaza operators.
DRTSS is a government department responsible for regulating road traffic and promoting road safety.
Its core functions include vehicle registration and inspection, driver testing and licensing, enforcement of traffic regulations, and public road safety education.
The directorate also plays a key role in collecting motor vehicle–related revenues and advising government on road traffic policies aimed at reducing accidents and improving safety on Malawi’s roads.
