Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – In a significant stride towards enhancing road safety, the Directorate of Transport under the Ministry of Transport, Works and Infrastructure validated the Road Safety Legislation Reform Report on Thursday, 11th July 2024. The validation took place during a virtual meeting that underscored the government’s commitment to reducing traffic accidents and fatalities across the nation.

The comprehensive report is a thorough review of current road safety laws and proposes substantial reforms. These reforms aim to address critical issues such as distracted driving, driving under the influence, and overall improvements to the Motor Traffic Act. Key aspects of the proposed changes include stricter regulations on distracted driving and enhanced penalties for those caught driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

The virtual meeting commenced with welcome remarks from representatives of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa and the Ministry of Transport (The Gambia). Following these remarks, a consultant presented the detailed findings and recommendations of the report. An interactive session ensued, allowing stakeholders to discuss the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed changes.

This initiative is a clear demonstration of the government’s dedication to safeguarding Gambian citizens on the roads. The reforms are expected to create a safer driving environment, thereby significantly reducing the number of road traffic accidents and fatalities.

The collaborative effort between the Ministry of Transport and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa highlights the importance of international cooperation in addressing road safety challenges.

As the reforms move towards implementation, the Ministry of Transport, Works and Infrastructure  has issued a public statement saying the government remains focused on ensuring that the new regulations are practical, enforceable, and have a lasting positive impact on road safety in Gambia.

The validation of this reform marks a pivotal moment in the nation’s efforts to curb traffic-related incidents.