09/01/2026
DRUNK DRIVING REMAINS LEADING CAUSE OF ROAD ACCIDENT FATALITIES
January 09, 2026 – The Minister of Public Works and Transport, Honourable Matjato Moteane, has reported that road accident fatalities continue to rise, with drunk driving identified as the leading cause.
The Minister shared this information during a media briefing held in Maseru on Friday, where feedback was provided on the 2025/26 Road Safety Campaigns (RSC).
Mr Moteane indicated that road accident deaths have increased over the past five years, rising from 4,001 fatalities in 2021 to 4,028 in 2025. He explained that pedestrians account for the majority of victims, many of whom are killed by drivers under the influence of alcohol.
He further stated that although last year recorded a tragic accident at Ha Molipa, which was attributed to over-speeding, drinking and driving remain the main contributors to road deaths nationwide.
The Minister emphasised the need for drivers to respect the rights of all road users and urged motorists to act responsibly and consider the safety of others while using public roads.
Meanwhile, Mr Moteane noted that presentations from teams involved in this year’s road safety campaigns highlighted the importance of adequate budget allocation to ensure effective implementation and service delivery.
Similarly, the Deputy Principal Secretary, Advocate Lesimole Moletsane, stated that changing drinking and driving behaviour is critical to reducing road accidents and saving lives.
(Story by Nthemile Makompo, photos by Malefu Ramokoena)
