Malawi sees fewer fatalities, rise in traffic accidents during festive season

By Michael Martin//MALAWI

The Malawi Police Service (MPS) recorded a total of 30 road traffic accidents from midnight on 24 December 2025 to midnight on 26 December 2025 compared to 19 recorded in the same period in 2024.

Senior Superintendent Lael Chimtembo
Service Public Relations Officer confirmed the matter saying; in terms of accident severity, 5 fatal road accidents were recorded resulting in 9 deaths in 2025, compared to 11 fatal accidents resulting in 13 deaths registered in 2024.

Chimtembo said this represents a decrease of 55% in fatal accidents and a 31% reduction in fatalities.

“The MPS recorded 2 serious traffic road accidents, resulting in 3 severe injuries. There were no serious accidents in 2024,” said Chintembo.

She added that a total of 16 minor traffic road accidents resulted in 36 slight injuries in 2025, while 5 minor accidents resulted in 21 slight injuries in 2024.

“7 damages only accidents were recorded in 2025, while 3 damages only accidents were recorded in 2024.

“Central Region recorded 2 fatal road traffic accidents and 6 deaths; Northern Region recorded 2 fatal traffic road accidents and 2 deaths; and Southern Region recorded 1 fatal traffic road accident and 1 death.

“Majority of these accidents are attributed to human behavior, specifically speeding, reckless driving or riding, and fatigue,” she said.

Apparently, while fatalities have decreased in 2025, a life lost is one too many and remains a cause for concern to the Service and the nation as a whole. Also, the increase in minor and damages only road accidents is worrisome, and MPS will ensure these accidents too are reduced.

In this regard, the MPS will continue to rigorously enforce all traffic laws, including those against speeding and drink-driving.

The MPS advises all drivers and riders to operate their vehicles and motorcycles with due care and consideration for other road users.