Accra:Cunene At least 51 people have lost their lives and 525 have been injured in 368 road traffic accidents in Cunene Province from January to September this year.
According to Angola Press News Agency, these figures represent a decrease compared to the same period last year, with 21 fewer deaths, 89 fewer injuries, and 26 fewer accidents. The statistics were shared by Chief Superintendent Angelino Serrote, the Commander of Traffic and Road Safety in Cunene, during a press conference marking the launch of the 18th edition of the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims.
The reduction in road accidents in the province is attributed to preventive measures and increased enforcement of traffic laws. However, 72% of the accidents involved motorbike taxi operators, who often engage in unsafe driving practices and ignore traffic regulations. Risky behaviors such as drink-driving, speeding, vehicle overloading, and illegal overtaking continue to be prevalent among motorists.
Additional contributing factors include driver fatigue and drowsiness, poorly maintained vehicles, pedestrians disregarding traffic regulations, and improper transportation of passengers and goods. Despite the decline in numbers, the situation remains a significant concern due to the ongoing impact of road traffic accidents on public health and safety.
Superintendent Serrote emphasized that road accidents not only claim lives annually but also leave many individuals with permanent disabilities, causing substantial socio-economic damage. He called upon local authorities, churches, academic and educational institutions, youth organizations, motorbike taxi operators, taxi drivers, and passenger transport companies to engage civil society in the planned activities under the slogan 'We are all responsible for life on the road.'
The campaign aims to include talks in schools and churches, radio debates, and awareness activities in markets and taxi ranks, offering practical road safety advice. It will conclude with a march to honor road traffic accident victims. The World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims is observed annually on the third Sunday of November to commemorate those who have died in road accidents and to acknowledge the efforts of emergency services.
