New NRSA Director to strengthen enforcement of road safety laws

The newly appointed Director General of the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA), Abraham Amaliba, has committed to intensifying law enforcement to enhance road safety across Ghana.

He emphasized that before stricter enforcement begins, extensive public education and awareness campaigns will be conducted to encourage compliance with road regulations.

During a road inspection tour on Monday, covering pedestrian crossings at Tetegu, Kawukudi, Lapaz, and Atomic Junction in Accra, Mr. Amaliba expressed concern over the high rate of pedestrian knockdowns. He stressed the importance of ensuring pedestrian bridges are used properly to protect lives and maximize the government’s investment in road infrastructure.

"My briefing notes indicate a troubling number of pedestrian knockdowns. That’s why I decided to visit some of these footbridges. They are vital for road safety, as they provide a secure way for pedestrians to cross while vehicles travel at high speeds," he stated.

This initiative marks one of Mr. Amaliba’s first actions since assuming office, succeeding Mr. David Osafo Adonteng as Director General.

Engagement with Road Users

During the inspection, he interacted with various road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and transport operators, to educate them on road safety measures. He urged drivers and commuters to adhere to regulations, including obeying speed limits, wearing seatbelts, helmets, and protective gear.

He also called on transport unions to organize regular training sessions for their members to reinforce knowledge on road safety and responsible driving practices.

According to Mr. Amaliba, improving road safety requires addressing both driver negligence and pedestrian misbehavior. He announced plans to revive the enforcement of road safety compliance notices and surcharges, which have been underutilized.

"A new leadership is in place, and road safety must be a priority. When people leave their homes in the morning, ‘goodbye’ should mean they will return safely, not that they may not come back," he said.

Introducing Road Safety Education in Schools

As part of long-term measures, Mr. Amaliba revealed plans to collaborate with the Ghana Education Service to incorporate road safety education into school curricula. He explained that while habitual offenders would face stricter penalties, educating young people from an early age would help instill a culture of road safety awareness.

"Some individuals have already developed unsafe habits and will need to be held accountable. However, young students who are still learning how to navigate roads should receive proper education. I will soon engage with the Ministry of Education to integrate road safety education into their learning materials," he stated.

Addressing Infrastructure Challenges

During the inspection, Mr. Amaliba expressed concern over deteriorating road infrastructure, including faded lane markings and malfunctioning traffic lights. He assured the public that NRSA would work closely with the Department of Urban Roads to restore critical road markings, particularly along the George Walker Bush Highway.

He also announced plans to collaborate with the Electricity Company of Ghana to install and repair streetlights in areas where poor visibility contributes to accidents.

Collaboration with Okada Riders

As part of the exercise, Mr. Amaliba engaged with commercial motorbike (Okada) riders and transport unions, urging them to observe traffic laws. Acknowledging ongoing discussions about the potential legalization of commercial motorbike operations, he advised riders to prioritize safety in the meantime.

If legal recognition is granted, he noted that strict regulatory measures, including mandatory safety training, uniform identification, and licensed number plates, would be implemented.

Mohammed Tijani, National Chairman of the Okada Board, congratulated Mr. Amaliba on his appointment and assured him of the board’s commitment to promoting road safety. He also appealed to the government to review licensing fees and address challenges related to insurance claims.