MECs Nqatha and Capa Kick Off Arrive Alive Campaign in Komani

Eastern Cape Launches 2025 Festive Season Arrive Alive Campaign

Komani, Eastern Cape – The Eastern Cape Department of Transport, in partnership with the Eastern Cape Department of Health, will launch the 2025 Festive Season Arrive Alive campaign on Thursday, 4 December. The campaign aims to reduce road accidents and fatalities during the busy holiday period.

Transport MEC Xolile Nqatha and Health MEC Ntandokazi Capa will lead proceedings, as traffic law-enforcement officers, Emergency Medical Services (EMS), and rapid response teams prepare for what is expected to be one of the busiest festive seasons on the province’s roads.

As part of the campaign’s operational plan, traffic officers will be issued 36 new patrol vehicles to improve visibility and reduce response times in emergencies. MEC Nqatha highlighted the urgency of strengthened road safety measures.

“As we roll out this year’s Arrive Alive campaign, our commitment is clear: we are here to save lives. The additional vehicles and intensified enforcement along our major corridors will help us respond faster and intervene more effectively. Too many families have suffered the pain of losing loved ones on our roads, and we cannot allow this festive season to bring more tragedy,” MEC Nqatha said.

This year’s safety plan will focus on major and high-risk corridors, including the N2 and R61 leading to the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal, the truck-heavy N10, and the N2 route from Gqeberha through East London, the Kei Cuttings, and onward to Mthatha. Law enforcement and EMS teams will be strategically positioned along these routes to provide rapid response and ensure road users’ safety.

Health MEC Ntandokazi Capa expressed concern about the toll road crashes take on families and the healthcare system.

“This period places immense strain on our hospitals and EMS teams, all while families are trying to enjoy the holidays. Our emergency personnel will be on high alert across the province, but the most important step is preventing crashes. Responsible driving and respect for the rules of the road can save lives, and that is our collective mission this festive season,” said MEC Capa.

The launch details are as follows:

• Date: 04 December 2025

• Time: 14:00

• Venue: N6 Komani, near Komani Psychiatric Hospital

Both departments emphasised that the campaign’s core objective is reducing crashes, recognising that fewer accidents inevitably result in fewer injuries and fatalities. This joint initiative forms part of the wider provincial effort to safeguard residents and visitors travelling across the Eastern Cape during the festive season.