Africa-Press – Lesotho. A 57 year-old man from Lifofaneng lost his life on Monday evening after being struck by a Mazda Demio along the A1 road near Makhaola High School, a notorious hotspot for fatal accidents.
The incident occurred around 8:30 pm.
According to Qacha’s Nek Traffic Police Officer, Sub-Inspector Teboho Pali, the car was driven by a 45 year-old woman from Lifofaneng.
“After the accident, due to fear, she rushed home to fetch her husband for help and returned to the scene, where they encountered other motorists. They admitted involvement in the accident, sought help, called the police and transported the injured man to Machabeng Government Hospital, where he unfortunately passed away,” he explained to the Agency.
Sub-Inspector Pali urged pedestrians to wear reflective clothing when walking near roads, especially at night, to ensure they are visible to drivers.
He also advised staying closer to sidewalks or safer areas during the festive season to avoid accidents. Drivers were reminded to remain vigilant, as the festive season often brings higher risks.
This tragic incident marks the first pedestrian fatality of the season, with most accidents typically involving vehicle to vehicle collisions.
Makhaola High School and the surrounding A1 stretch from Lifofaneng gate remain accident-prone, claiming several lives over the years, including students.
Rising cases of road accidents linked to speeding and alcohol abuse have become a growing concern, prompting Melele to call on God for intervention. Around April 2024, the community held a prayer session led by the Christian Council of Lesotho (CCL) and renewed calls for the installation of speed humps to improve safety in the area.
According to statistics from the Road Safety Department and the police, Lesotho recorded 4,274 accidents in 2007. In 2013, that number rose to 5,538 before slightly decreasing to 5,236 in 2015.
The report shows that December consistently records the highest number of fatalities, followed by April and March.
In 2015, Qacha’s Nek recorded the highest share of deaths at 23.2 percent, followed by Mokhotlong with 15.2 percent, while Mohale’s Hoek recorded the lowest at 5.6 percent.
Between 2016 and 2019, Road Safety recorded an average of 4,000 accidents annually. Numbers dropped to just over 2,563 in 2020 due to COVID-19 lockdowns, which kept many people at home.
This tragic accident is a sobering reminder for everyone to remain vigilant on the roads during the festive season and to prioritize safety to ensure a joyful holiday for all.
