Road traffic deaths drop 13% in first half of 2026, says MPS
Published on July 23, 2026 at 10:31 AM by Edgar Naitha
The Malawi Police Service (MPS) has reported a 13 percent decline in road traffic deaths during the first six months of 2026 compared to the same period last year.
According to a statement signed by Deputy National Public Relations Officer Alfred Chimthere, road traffic fatalities fell from 464 in the first half of 2025 to 406 during the corresponding period in 2026.
The statement also indicates that the total number of road traffic accidents dropped by six percent, from 1,894 cases in 2025 to 1,784 this year. Fatal crashes declined by 15 percent, decreasing from 411 to 351.
“The Central West and South West regions accounted for 68 percent of all reported road traffic accidents,” the statement says.
The police further note that men continue to bear the greatest burden of road crashes, accounting for 78 percent of all casualties and 84 percent of fatalities. People aged between 25 and 44 years remain the most affected age group.
Pedestrians were identified as the most vulnerable road users, making up 43 percent of all casualties. They were followed by passengers at 28 percent, motorcyclists at 14 percent, pedal cyclists at nine percent and drivers at six percent.
The MPS attributes most road crashes to driver behaviour, particularly excessive speeding, which remains the leading cause of accidents.
Chimthere has urged motorists, pedestrians and other road users to comply with traffic regulations and remain vigilant, saying the Service will continue strengthening traffic law enforcement while working closely with relevant stakeholders to improve road safety.
