Aware.org and the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) have launched Drive Sober, Stay Alive, a six-month collaborative effort aimed at tackling the persistent problem of drunk driving in Johannesburg.

The initiative, which runs from June to the end of December 2026, brings together government, law enforcement, and civil society in an evidence-based approach to make the city’s roads safer. It will focus on strategic planning, intensified enforcement, public education, and real-time research to better understand and reduce alcohol-related road incidents.

Activities will target high-risk periods, such as public holidays, long weekends, winter festivities, and the festive season, while also monitoring quieter times to build a full picture of drinking and driving patterns throughout the year.

Read more: Aware.org unveils ambitious 2026 strategy after a year of impact

The programme involves key departments within the City of Johannesburg and aims to improve co-ordination and test whether a structured partnership can deliver lasting road safety improvements. It supports the 2030 goals of cutting road fatalities and serious injuries by 50%, as set out in both the national road safety strategy and the United Nations global road tafety strategy.

Mokebe Thulo, CEO of AwareE.org, said the initiative demonstrates a commitment to a more co-ordinated and evidence-led response to drunk driving. “Our goal is to generate practical evidence that can help strengthen interventions, improve accountability, and inform South Africa’s broader response to drunk driving.”

The campaign builds on recommendations from Aware.org’s 2025 don’t drink and drive seminar, which brought together stakeholders to discuss practical solutions for reducing alcohol-related harm on the country’s roads.

JMPD data highlights the scale of the challenge. Driving under the influence (DUI) arrests rose from 8 287 in 2023 to 9 898 in 2025, with the highest concentration occurring between 18:00 and 23:59. Average alcohol levels among offenders have also increased gradually over the period. Roadblocks now account for more than 72% of arrests, up from just over 50% in 2023. Most offenders fall in the 25–44 age group, with males making up 94–96% of arrests.

Xolani Fihla, JMPD spokesperson, said drunk driving remains a serious yet entirely preventable threat. “Through Drive Sober, Stay Alive, JMPD is strengthening data-driven enforcement and using evidence to guide operations that prioritise public safety and save lives.”

A key feature of the initiative is the use of evidentiary breath alcohol testing (Ebat) machines, which deliver court-admissible results at the scene of arrest. This technology aims to strengthen the chain from arrest to prosecution and improve accountability.

Also read: AWARE.org celebrates a year of impact and reveals vision for safer communities in 2026

The programme will also track offenders’ journeys through the justice system, including prosecution and rehabilitation options where appropriate. Courts and rehabilitation partners will collaborate to improve case follow-through.

Ongoing research and data analysis will run throughout the six months, creating a feedback loop to identify trends, understand behaviour, and refine interventions. Insights from the project are expected to inform future policy and potential national rollout.

Members of the public are encouraged to support road safety by planning ahead, using e-hailing services or taxis, appointing designated drivers and making responsible choices regarding alcohol consumption. Personal accountability and public awareness are essential to reducing harm and saving lives on Johannesburg’s roads.

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