BY PHESHEYA IAN KUNENE
EZULWINI – The Kofi Annan Road Safety Award ceremony, held at the Happy Valley Hotel in Eswatini, brought together leaders, policymakers, and advocates from across Africa to honor groundbreaking efforts aimed at improving road safety on the continent.
The event attracted dignitaries from all corners of Africa, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with optimism and commitment.
Attendees, dressed in their finest attire, gathered to discuss solutions to Africa’s ongoing road safety crisis, which claims the lives of over 300,000 people each year.
The ceremony celebrated innovative road safety initiatives while urging greater collaboration to reduce these fatalities.
In his opening remarks, UN Resident Coordinator George Wachira commended Eswatini for its leadership in road safety, particularly the 2023 launch of its National Road Safety Strategy and the creation of a Centre of Excellence in Road Safety. He emphasized the need for continued efforts in addressing road safety as a public health priority.
Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini, who was a key speaker at the ceremony, reinforced Eswatini’s commitment to improving road safety.
He shared his government’s proactive stance, stating that the country’s efforts were not limited to infrastructure improvements but also focused on changing public attitudes.
“Eswatini is taking bold steps towards making our roads safer. Our National Road Safety Strategy aims to not only improve the infrastructure but to ensure that every person in our country understands the importance of road safety,” Dlamini said.
The Prime Minister emphasized that Eswatini was dedicated to fostering a culture of road safety, not just through enforcement, but through widespread public education.
“The responsibility lies with each one of us. It is not enough to build safer roads; we must all make the conscious choice to follow road safety practices,” he added.
Dlamini’s speech underscored the importance of community involvement and the role of every individual in driving change.
Eswatini’s Centre of Excellence in Road Safety, which Dlamini referenced, has been instrumental in coordinating research, partnerships, and public awareness campaigns aimed at reducing traffic-related injuries.
“We are committed to collaborating with other nations and organizations to scale these efforts,” he affirmed, highlighting the importance of regional cooperation in addressing road safety challenges.
During the ceremony, the Kofi Annan Road Safety Award was presented to countries such as Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, and Ethiopia for their pioneering road safety initiatives. These countries were recognized for implementing strategies that prioritize the safety of vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians, cyclists, and children.
The award serves as an acknowledgment of the impactful changes taking place across the continent.
National Road Safety Ambassador Sibusiso ‘Swazi Bolt’ Matsenjwa also addressed the audience, urging athletes to use their platform to promote road safety.
Matsenjwa, who is renowned for his sprinting achievements, stressed that road safety should be a priority for everyone, including athletes. “We must set an example for our communities. Whether we’re cycling, running, or driving, it’s our responsibility to practice safety and encourage others to do the same,” Matsenjwa said.
Prime Minister Dlamini supported this call for action, emphasizing the role of public figures in influencing societal behavior. He pointed out that athletes, as role models, have the power to inspire positive change. “Our athletes are leaders not only on the field but also in their communities. Their advocacy for road safety can have a profound impact on the public’s understanding of the issue,” Dlamini noted.
Dignitaries from the United Nations and other organizations, including Antonio Pedro from the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, also participated in the discussions, stressing the need for comprehensive legal frameworks and sustainable funding for road safety initiatives. Antonio Pedro highlighted that while Africa accounts for 19% of global road traffic deaths, it possesses only 3% of the world’s vehicles. He urged governments and private sector players to do more to close the funding gap and implement effective measures.
As the event concluded, Prime Minister Dlamini reiterated the importance of continued collaboration to make Africa’s roads safer. He called on all sectors of society—governments, businesses, and individuals—to work together towards reducing road traffic fatalities. “We must create a collective sense of responsibility. The future of road safety in Africa depends on the actions we take today,” he concluded.
The Kofi Annan Road Safety Award not only celebrated the achievements of the past year but also galvanized a movement to ensure safer roads for all Africans. Eswatini’s leadership and commitment to road safety continue to inspire hope for a future with fewer road deaths and injuries, while the ceremony served as a timely reminder that the fight for safer roads is an ongoing journey.
