The National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) has disclosed that 1,937 individuals lost their lives in road accidents throughout Ghana from January to August 2025.
As per the report, 16,348 vehicles were involved in incidents during this timeframe, leading to 10,957 injuries and 9,626 documented cases. The detailed statistics indicate 5,515 commercial vehicles, 6,647 private vehicles, and 4,186 motorcycles.
These statistics were presented by Abraham Amaliba, the Acting Director-General of the NRSA, during a visit by the Deputy Minister of Transport, Dorcas Affo-Toffey, aimed at familiarizing herself with the operations of the Authority.
Mr. Amaliba noted that speeding is a significant contributor, responsible for over 80% of accidents, with numerous drivers exceeding speed limits in both rural and urban settings. He also pointed out that indiscriminate pedestrian activities, such as street vending, along with inadequate road engineering and maintenance, are major factors.
The NRSA has suggested revisions to the Road Traffic Regulations (LI 2180) to enhance the removal of disabled vehicles and has advocated for automated traffic enforcement to address speeding issues.
Looking forward, the Authority intends to amplify road safety education and incorporate it into the functions of Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs). Additionally, it will continue to make efforts to enhance motorcycle safety by promoting the use of helmets and other protective equipment.
However, Mr. Amaliba expressed concerns regarding insufficient funding for road safety initiatives and the necessity for financial clearance to replace departing staff, calling for government assistance.
Deputy Minister Affo-Toffey praised the NRSA for its efforts and reaffirmed the Ministry’s dedication to decreasing road accidents.
Her visit also encompassed tours of the Ghana Railway Development Authority (GRDA) and the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA).
At the GRDA, Acting Chief Executive Dr. Frederick Apoh announced that operations on the Tema–Mpakadan railway line are set to begin on October 1, 2025, while work continues on the Tema–Nsawam and Takoradi–Nsuta projects. He emphasized that the rail network will generate new employment opportunities for the youth.
At the DVLA, Acting Chief Executive Julius N. Kotey reported that the Authority’s new sticker system has raised sticker issuance from 2,000 to 12,000, leading to a significant increase in revenue. He also disclosed that by 2026, all number plates will be updated to comply with global standards.
Mr. Kotey further mentioned that new systems have been implemented to enhance efficiency at DVLA offices in Adenta, Bole, Dormaa, Bechem, and Asamankese, among others.
Mrs. Affo-Toffey assured the agencies of government support to bolster service delivery and improve their contributions to national development.
