The Drive More Safely NPO will host this year’s World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims at NG Kerk Suid-Oos on Sunday (November 16), starting at 09:00. The event is open to everyone who wishes to attend.

Global day honours victims of road crashes

This global day, first adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in Resolution 60/5, honours those who have lost their lives or been seriously injured in road crashes. It also recognises the tireless work of emergency services, and aims to raise awareness about the emotional and economic impact of road traffic collisions.

Global road deaths remain alarmingly high

According to the World Health Organization’s Global Status Report on Road Safety, more than 1.35 million people die each year on the world’s roads. Road traffic injuries are now the leading cause of death for people aged five to 29, with pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists – particularly in developing countries – most at risk.

Vryheid chosen due to high number of local road deaths

Event organiser Alida Venter said Vryheid was chosen because of the high number of road deaths in the area. “So many lives have been lost on our local roads. We felt it was important to hold this day of remembrance here, to pay tribute to the victims and show support to their families,” she said.

Senior officials expected to attend

Special guests are expected to include the deputy minister of transport, acting CEO of the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC), and KwaZulu-Natal MEC for transport.

Programme includes service, music and candle-lighting ceremony

The programme will include a remembrance church service, children’s activities and a performance by guest artist Phillip Kotze. Guests will also take part in a candle-lighting ceremony to honour loved ones lost in road accidents, followed by a closing prayer and a human chain along the church road.

Event supports UN Decade of Action

This World Day of Remembrance forms part of the UN Decade of Action for Road Safety 2021-2030, which aims to reduce global road deaths and injuries by 50% by 2030.

For more information, contact Alida Venter on 061 428 5231.

The news provided to you in this link comes to you from the editorial staff of the Vryheid Herald, a sold newspaper distributed in the Vryheid area.