Zimbabwe fast-tracks State-administered Road Accident Fund

The Zimbabwean government is fast-tracking the establishment of a State-administered Road Accident Fund (RAF) to overhaul the nation’s road accident compensation system. The proposed Road Accident Fund Administration Bill, which is currently at an advanced stage following nationwide consultations, aims to implement a no-fault system. This would allow victims or their families to access immediate assistance for medical treatment, evacuation, and funeral expenses without the need to first prove liability in a crash.

Currently, compensation relies on compulsory third-party motor insurance managed by private companies. Under the new model, the RAF would be funded by redirecting portions of existing compulsory motor insurance premiums. Specifically, 35 percent of the standard premium would be channeled to the RAF, 34.3 percent would remain with insurance companies for vehicle damage and other claims, and 30.7 percent would cover brokerage fees.

The legislative push follows increased national concern over road fatalities, most notably the Chivhu tragedy on the Harare-Masvingo Highway. In that incident, a collision between a commuter omnibus and a haulage truck resulted in 28 deaths and six injuries, prompting President Mnangagwa to declare a State of Disaster.