Of course, let’s start:
Road safety in Côte d’Ivoire is more than ever a central concern, following the recent fatal accidents that took place between August and December in the interior of the country. These tragedies cost the lives of 71 people and injured 54 others, highlighting the dangers faced by road users in the country.
The investigation conducted by the Ministry of Transport identified the main causes of these accidents. Old vehicles, in poor mechanical condition, degraded roads and overloading of vehicles were singled out. These elements, combined, created an explosive cocktail likely to cause human tragedies.
The announcement of preventive measures by the Ministry of Transport is an important response to these recurring accidents. The reinforcement of video surveillance and road checks is announced as a crucial step in ensuring the safety of road users. It is essential that the authorities put in place effective mechanisms to identify and sanction violations, thus ensuring better safety on Ivorian roads.
Among the measures envisaged, the banning of two- or three-wheeled vehicles on major roads could reduce the number of victims among these vulnerable users. The pilot phase planned on Boulevard Valéry Giscard d’Estaing in January 2025 will be a first step to assess the impact of this measure and adjust if necessary.
The tragic accident that recently occurred on the Bondoukou-Abidjan axis is a reminder of the need to act quickly and effectively to prevent further loss of life. The road accident of a minibus that caused the death of 10 people is a stark reminder of the dangers to which travelers are exposed on the country’s roads.
In conclusion, road safety in Côte d’Ivoire requires special attention and concrete actions to reduce the number of accidents and victims. The measures announced by the Ministry of Transport are an important first step, but it is essential to continue efforts to ensure the safety of all road users. Prevention and awareness-raising remain essential levers for changing behaviors and reducing the risk of accidents on the country’s roads.