Driven by sorrow over the endless lives lost on the N4 highway, local community members, faith leaders, law enforcement officials, and corporate entities united in a powerful display of hope and prayer on Thursday, October 15.

The initiative, called “One Hour Prayer for the N4 Road”, was spearheaded by the Outreaching Lives Foundation. The gathering commenced at the Highway SPAR open field in Ngodwana before culminating in a symbolic prayer march along the N4 junction at Elandshoek KaJames.

Campaign honours crash victims

The founder of the foundation, Suzan Mbazima, explained that the campaign was birthed from deep emotional pain caused by continuous carnage and the tragic loss of life on that stretch of road.

“We came to pray, to plead for mercy, and to dedicate the road back to God,” Mbazima said. “What was initially intended to be a modest gathering quickly transformed into a robust, united front. Local taxi operators, police, traffic officials, paramedics, corporate representatives – including TRAC and Sappi workers – and church congregants stood shoulder to shoulder alongside the highway.”

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The programme featured 10 specific prayer items, each led by local pastors addressing critical issues impacting the corridor. Participating community members held prominent placards bearing urgent road-safety calls to action.

Stakeholders urge motorists to stay safe

Reflecting on the turnout and emotional depth of the event, Mbazima expressed her profound gratitude to everyone who attended.

“As peak travel season approaches, the Outreaching Lives Foundation and participating stakeholders firmly urge all motorists and road users to be safe, rest when tired, observe speed limits, and remember that families are waiting at home,” Mbazima said.