SEKONDI-TAKORADI METROPOLITAN ASSEMBLY HOST STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT SESSION TO PROMOTE ROAD SAFETY AND ACTIVE MOBILITY

The Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly (STMA) has held a stakeholder engagement session aimed at promoting road safety awareness for active mobility, encouraging cycling and walking among residents as part of its sustainable transportation measures. The meeting brought together representatives from various stakeholders, including the National Road Safety Authority, Police Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD), Ghana Cycling Federation, Insurance companies, and Transport operators, attended the meeting to discuss collective efforts to promote cyclist and pedestrian safety.

The Metropolitan Chief Executive, Hon. Fredrick Faustinus Faidoo (Esq.), in his opening emphasized the Assembly's commitment to making Sekondi-Takoradi the cleanest city in Ghana by 2030, He noted that promoting cycling as part of the Sustainable Urban Mobility agenda will help reduce vehicular emissions, enhance public health, and strengthen community bonds. “Cycling is more than just a mode of transport’, it is a movement toward a healthier, greener, and more connected community,” he said. The MCE added that the Assembly in collaboration with the Ghana Cycling Federation, will launch public awareness campaigns on pedestrian and cyclist safety to promote active mobility. The MCE called for cycling-friendly infrastructure in national road designs to ensure active road user safety.

The Western Regional MTTD Commander, Supt. Paul Bruce Amoah noted that cyclists are required to obtain a license “A” to ride on public roads. He revealed that the region had recorded 106 road-related incidents, resulting in 25 deaths, 56 injuries, and 66 knockdowns, and urged motorists to respect the rights of cyclists and pedestrians. Supt. Amoah further advised riders are to wear protective gear and reflective clothing for their safety and encouraged pillion riders to do the same. He appealed to cyclists not to use bicycles and motorcycles to commit offences and to adopt safety practices as part of their daily habits.

A representative from the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA), Mr. Samuel Holdbrook, reported that Ghana records an average of 11,400 road crashes annually, resulting in approximately 2,000 fatalities. He attributed many of these incidents to motorists’ poor attitudes toward safety and urged all road users to remain alert and responsible.

The Secretary-General of the Ghana Cycling Federation, Mr. Shaaban Mohammed, commended cyclists for their sense of caution and discipline on the road. He revealed that the Federation has begun engaging schools across the country to encourage students to embrace cycling not only as a form of leisure and exercise, but also as a sustainable means of transport.

Mr. Shaaban Mohammed highlighted the numerous health, environmental, and economic benefits of cycling and urged participants to support the call for the inclusion of dedicated bicycle lanes in National Road Designs. This, he noted, forms part of broader efforts to promote a strong cycling culture and enhance road safety in Ghana. As an added precaution, the representative from the insurance company recommended that participants should consider opting for general life pensions as their insurance cover. This will provide an extra layer of protection in the event of accidents or unforeseen circumstances, giving you added peace of mind as you prioritize road safety and active mobility.