AYV News, April 1, 2026
Sierra Leone has officially become the 14th country to ratify the African Road Safety Charter, marking a major step in the country’s efforts to reduce road accidents and improve safety for all road users.
The milestone was achieved under the leadership of James Bagie Bio of the Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority, with technical support from the Ministry of Transport and Aviation.
The Charter, which entered into force on March 12, 2026, sets an ambitious target of reducing road traffic deaths by 50 percent by 2030. It focuses on protecting drivers, passengers, and pedestrians while strengthening legal, institutional, and safety frameworks across African countries.
To achieve these goals, member states are required to implement stronger road safety laws, improve enforcement, invest in safer road infrastructure, maintain high vehicle standards, and enhance data collection and emergency response systems.
In line with these commitments, the SLRSA has already introduced several reforms, including the decentralisation of licensing services nationwide and the rollout of digital platforms to improve accessibility. The Authority has also strengthened collaboration with key institutions such as the National Civil Registration Authority for driver data integration, the Sierra Leone Standards Bureau for vehicle quality control, and the National Emergency Medical Service to enhance post-crash care and emergency response.
Speaking on the development, James Bagie Bio said the Authority is committed to implementing the Charter by domesticating its provisions and raising public awareness. He noted that Sierra Leone’s ratification played a key role in triggering the Charter’s entry into force.
He added that the achievement reflects broader national efforts under President Julius Maada Bio to reposition Sierra Leone as an active contributor to regional and global initiatives.
Observers say the ratification positions Sierra Leone to make significant progress toward safer roads, improved transport systems, and reduced fatalities, in line with continental and global road safety targets.
