As the world observes the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims on November 17, the focus turns to the millions suffering from road accidents. This global event honors those killed or seriously injured and the emergency crews and medical professionals who respond to these tragedies. In South Africa, the statistics are alarming, with the Road Traffic Management Corporation reporting over 10,180 fatal crashes in 2023.
The United Nations’ Second Decade of Action for Road Safety (2021-2030) aims to halve road traffic deaths and injuries by 2030, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced road safety measures.
A Life Changed in an Instant
Zwelethu Mazibuko, a 44-year-old survivor of a near-fatal car accident in 2008, shares his harrowing experience. Just hours after his bachelor party, he was involved in a catastrophic collision caused by a speeding drunk driver. The accident left him critically injured, with his heart-stopping and multiple fractures.
“I felt a deep sense of peace as everything went dark,” Zwelethu recalls. Thanks to his father’s determination, emergency responders continued their efforts to revive him, ultimately succeeding. However, his journey to recovery was just beginning.
After spending three months in a coma, Zwelethu’s family was faced with the heartbreaking decision of whether to keep him on life support. His father’s faith led to nightly prayer circles, and miraculously, Zwelethu emerged from his coma.
“I remember a vision of my grandmother negotiating with God for my life,” he reflects. Tragically, she passed away shortly after his awakening. The accident had lasting effects; he faced numerous surgeries, rehabilitation, and extensive psychological and physical challenges.
Zwelethu endured brain damage, leaving him with retrograde amnesia and difficulty recognizing loved ones. He also had to relearn basic skills, including walking and reading, while grappling with the emotional fallout of losing his fiancé and many friends.
Two years post-accident, Zwelethu faced another setback when he contracted a severe infection, MRSA, during his hospital stay. This life-threatening condition required a six-month quarantine and rigorous treatment, further complicating his recovery.
“I want to thank my doctors and physiotherapist for saving my life,” he says. Despite ongoing health challenges, including diabetes and a risk of amputation due to a fall, Zwelethu remains resilient.
Zwelethu now uses his experience to advocate for road safety. “Accidents can drastically impact lives, and I urge everyone to drive responsibly, wear seatbelts, and adhere to road rules,” he states passionately.
With an inspiring message of hope and resilience, he conducts motivational talks in high schools across Gauteng, sharing his story to prevent future tragedies.
If you want to invite Zwelethu Mazibuko to speak at your school, please contact him at tkmccloy@gmail.com.
As the World Day of Remembrance approaches, Zwelethu’s journey serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of road safety and the enduring strength of the human spirit.
