AYV News, April 23, 2025
Executive Director of the Sierra Leone Roads Safety Authority (SLRSA), James Baggie Bio has engaged stakeholders from the alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverage manufacturing industry to address the critical issue of drink driving, which poses significant threats to road safety and responsible driving behavior.
Mr. Bio laid out the foundational pillars essential for promoting road safety, emphasizing the need for a collaborative approach. Education, he said, was vital to enhance public understanding of safe driving practices to foster responsible behaviour.
Encouragement of Responsible Behaviour he went on to say can create an environment that prioritizes and rewards responsible decision-making on the roads. Enforcement of road safety laws is crucial to ensure compliance and protect all road users, the company secretary stated.
The Executive Director made it clear that implementing a drink driving countermeasure policy is a priority for the government. This initiative aims to tackle the serious repercussions of alcohol-related traffic accidents, highlighting the necessity of enforcing measures that discourage drink driving.
Mr. Bio reinforced that advancing and applying drink driving countermeasures forms a core component of the SAFER strategies aimed at reducing alcohol-related harm. He pointed out that the existing Road Traffic Act serves as a solid foundation for these measures, demonstrating the government’s commitment to enhancing road safety.
In response, Menisa Sesay Esq, company secretary and Head of Legal Affairs Sierra Leone Brewery Limited, noted their previous contributions to the Authority’s drink driving campaigns and expressed their willingness to continue this important work. He suggested that the Authority should strengthen its processes regarding the issuance of drivers’ licenses, ensuring that all drivers undergo thorough scrutiny prior to certification to further enhance road safety.
The attendees recognized and commended the Executive Director and his team for their proactive approach, particularly in light of the upcoming rainy season. Emphasizing cooperation, the manufacturers’ representatives proposed launching a national campaign focused on combatting drink driving.
This initiative would not only involve manufacturers but also include importers of both alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, creating a united front dedicated to promoting road safety and effectively reducing the risks associated with drink driving across the country.
