Don’t blame ‘Malayisha’ from Zimbabwe, blame traffic officers

‘Malayisha’ is a name given to Zimbabwean goods transporters using bakkies and trailers to ferry goods across the border.

THE MALAYISHA TRADE HISTORY IN SOUTH AFRICA

This informal industry has been in existence for decades and has been a source of income to hundreds of drivers who ferry any item for Zimbabweans living in South Africa at a reasonable fee, unlike buses and trucks that charge an arm and a leg.

Horrifyingly loaded bakkies dragging trailers on the N1 is a norm, especially during the festive season. Many, seemingly surpassing the load limit, have made it past the border, only God knows how…

BAKKIE HEADED TO ZIMBABWE KILLS PEOPLE

This industry was thrown into the spotlight last week after three people were killed, including a toddler when a fully-loaded bakkie headed to Zimbabwe overturned. The fatal accident also left 13 people injured.

Emer-G-Med paramedics and other services responded to this serious motor vehicle collision on the N14 at approximately 08:30.
When paramedics arrived on the scene, they were met with complete chaos. The twisted frame of a double cab bakkie rested on its roof across the width of the roadway.

“Two infants were airlifted in critical condition and a one-year-old died after a serious accident on the N14 in the Centurion area.”

EMER-G-MED

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A source close to the industry claimed that this is the busiest season for Malayisha who travel in and out of the country due to the festive season demand and pressure to make a lot of money, however, forgetting to rest in between the ‘shifts’.

TRAFFIC OFFICERS BLAMED FOR CROSS-BORDER CRASHES

Following the accident, many felt the accident could’ve been avoided if traffic officers carried out their duties without fear or favour.

“Traffic officers allow these heavy loaded and unroadworthy vehicles to travel from GP to Maputo, Zim and other destinations. How they pass them remains a puzzle and only God knows,” said Joyce Lupindo.

Ali Runeli said, “Mr Mbalula, this happened on the road and I guess traffic police saw it, but they didn’t do anything. Look now, they didn’t pre-empt what could happen because they are reactionaries. They act after a tragedy”.

ALSO READ: No trip to Zimbabwe as Cross border buses are impounded