Ghana's National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) has called for urgent action to address significant deficiencies within the nation's road infrastructure. Kwame Kodua Attuahene, the NRSA's Director of Regulations, Inspections and Compliance, stated that these shortcomings remain a critical factor in road safety challenges and contribute to fatalities.
Mr. Attuahene acknowledged visible improvements in Ghana's road network over time. However, he stressed that the current state is far from perfect. He noted that concerns regarding road infrastructure have been consistently raised over the past three to four years, requiring sustained attention from the government and relevant institutions.
This call for action comes as Ghana continues to grapple with the economic and social costs of road accidents. While the absolute number of road deaths may fluctuate, Mr. Attuahene highlighted that other key indicators provide a more nuanced picture. The fatality rate, measured as deaths per 10,000 vehicles, improved from approximately 9.3 to about 6 between 2016 and 2023. Population risk also showed improvement during this period. However, the trend changed in 2024, indicating a need for renewed vigilance and investment in safety measures.
Speaking on the Joy FM Super Morning Show, Mr. Attuahene emphasized that road safety is a shared responsibility. He rejected the idea that any single institution should bear the full burden. Road safety involves multiple interconnected areas, including infrastructure design, enforcement of traffic laws, vehicle maintenance standards, and road-user behaviour. Addressing deficiencies in one area, such as infrastructure, must be part of a broader, coordinated effort.
The implications of inadequate road infrastructure extend beyond immediate safety concerns. Poor roads increase vehicle wear and tear, raise transportation costs for businesses, and hinder the efficient movement of goods and services. This directly impacts economic productivity and market efficiency. Decision-makers must consider the long-term economic benefits of investing in robust and safe road networks. The NRSA's call signals that without such investment, Ghana risks undermining its economic growth potential and increasing the burden on its healthcare system due to preventable accidents. Stakeholders will be watching for concrete steps to implement the national strategy and address these persistent infrastructure gaps.