Zambia’s roads are full of contrasts. In urban areas, you’ll find renovated highways with street lighting, but just a few kilometers away, drivers face gravel surfaces, potholes, faded or missing markings, and a lack of signage. In rural regions, the transportation network is often narrow and poorly developed, intersecting with pedestrian paths, bicycle lanes, or even local markets.
A significant portion of the country’s roadway system is in urgent need of repair or modernization. High-risk areas include intersections without traffic lights, unregulated pedestrian crossings, streets without sidewalks, and insufficient lighting at night.
The quality of the transportation network is a major factor in ensuring the safety of all road users. In Zambia, this issue affects both drivers and pedestrians. The stark contrast between modern city highways and undeveloped rural routes, combined with poor infrastructure and limited safety measures, creates daily hazards for those moving through towns and villages alike.
The story of an initiative: from Smart Driver to a nationwide movement
In 2024, 1xBet, in partnership with Safety for People On The Move, launched a project called The Smart Driver of the Month. For 11 months, the brand and its partners shared traffic safety quizzes on social media. Participants who correctly answered five questions could earn the Driver of the Month title and win a cash prize of 10,000 ZMW.
This initiative had a positive impact on Zambia’s driving culture and served as a catalyst for broader efforts to improve road safety.
Safety on the Road — a new level of responsibility
In 2025, the initiative evolved into the Safety on the Road project, expanding its focus beyond drivers to include all road users. Every two months, the 1xBet team highlights a key topic related to road safety — from infrastructure and pedestrian behavior to lighting conditions and accident-prone zones.
The project features:
- social media posts,
- analytical articles,
- TV and radio segments,
- involvement of local influencers,
- regular contests, quizzes, and trivia games.
The project’s prize fund reaches 100,000 ZMW.
The goal is not only to raise awareness but to build a culture of conscious respect for traffic rules, engage young people, and strengthen trust among everyone who shares the road.
Pedestrian ≠ vulnerable: first stage of the new Safety on the Road season
The 1xBet team starts 2025 focusing on pedestrians — the most vulnerable participants in road traffic. Statistics show that pedestrians are frequently the victims of road accidents. The causes range from inadequate infrastructure and poor visibility to a lack of compliance with traffic rules by both drivers and pedestrians.
That’s why the first phase of this year’s Safety on the Road campaign centers on Road Conditions and Pedestrian Safety in Zambia. The initiative introduces a new perspective: pedestrians shouldn’t just be viewed as vulnerable — they’re equal participants in traffic who deserve safe, dignified conditions. This time, the spotlight is on road infrastructure and how it affects the daily lives of ordinary people, especially those who walk every day.
To spark awareness and engagement, the team launched an interactive online game, GUESS THE LOCATION, the first activity of the new season.
GUESS THE LOCATION: quiz that makes you think
At first glance, it’s a simple trivia game: users view a photo of a road and try to guess the country. But there’s a stronger message behind it. The project encourages people to notice the infrastructure, reflect on the environments they navigate daily, and think critically about how safe their usual routes truly are.
This format blends entertainment with education, boosts engagement, and most importantly, helps foster a new road culture in Zambia — one where pedestrians are not seen as vulnerable bystanders, but as equal participants in traffic. Their safety is a shared responsibility.
What can everyone do? Road safety tips
For drivers navigating poor road conditions:
- Slow down
Damaged pavement, potholes, gravel, or puddles can be hazardous, especially on turns. Slower speed gives you more time to react safely. - Stay alert for the unexpected
Pedestrians, cyclists, or motorcyclists may swerve suddenly to avoid obstacles. Keep a safe distance and avoid overtaking in risky situations. - Check your car’s condition
Tires, brakes, and suspension wear out faster on uneven roads. Routine inspections and maintenance are essential for your safety.
For pedestrians on poorly maintained roads:
- Walk with caution along the roadside
If there’s no sidewalk, walk facing oncoming traffic. This helps you see approaching vehicles and react in time. - Make yourself visible
Wear bright clothing or reflective gear, especially in low light or bad weather conditions. - Cross where you can be seen
Avoid areas with limited visibility. Even if there’s no marked crosswalk, choose a well-lit spot with a clear view in both directions.
For everyone:
- Report dangerous road sections to your community or local authorities.
- Get involved in road safety campaigns and initiatives.
Safety is the choice of champions
1xBet uses its popularity and influence not only to entertain, but to promote responsibility. Through social media, articles, quizzes, and live events, we’re helping build a new road culture in Zambia — one where safe routes, visible crosswalks, and respect for pedestrians become the norm, not the exception.
Follow the Safety on the Road campaign on 1xBet Zambia’s social media — the next activity is coming soon!
https://instagram.com/1xbet.zambia
https://www.facebook.com/zambia.1xbet/
https://twitter.com/1xBet_Zambia
