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The World Health Organization (WHO) has emphasized the urgent need for Ghana and other African countries to adopt comprehensive policies and measures aimed at reducing road crashes, injuries, and fatalities by 50% by 2030, in line with Target 3.6 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
These policies should promote sustainable transportation systems, enhance legislative frameworks for road safety, invest in data management systems, improve post-crash response, and conduct research tailored to the continent’s specific challenges.
WHO’s 2023 status report on road safety in the African region, launched in Nairobi, highlights the significant road safety issues in Africa. Although the continent comprises 15% of the global population and 3% of vehicles, it accounts for 20% of global road crash deaths.
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The report noted that from 2010 to 2021, road crash deaths in Africa increased by 17%, whereas global rates fell by 5%. In 2021 alone, nearly 250,000 people died on African roads. The primary victims are males aged 15 to 64, with vulnerable road users such as motorcyclists, cyclists, and pedestrians being the worst affected.
The report attributes this rise in road crash deaths to various factors, including inadequate road safety laws and standards. Currently, no African country meets the best practice standards for key road safety behavioral risk factors such as speeding, drink driving, non-use of motorcycle helmets, seatbelts, and child restraints. Additionally, limited investments in alternative transport modes, such as cycling and walking, have exacerbated road-related fatalities. Only 13% of African countries have national strategies to promote these safer, more environmentally friendly transport options.
The WHO also pointed out the inadequacy of post-crash care services in Africa, with fewer than one-third of countries having adequate pre-hospital care, emergency care, and treatment and rehabilitation services. Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa, called the report’s findings a serious public health concern and pledged WHO’s continued support to improve road safety across the continent.
To mitigate the burden of road accidents, Abdourahmane Diallo, WHO representative in Kenya, recommended that African countries overhaul transport infrastructure, retrain motorists, and enhance safety education for motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists.
