According to the United Nations, traffic accidents are the leading cause of mortality from adolescents and young African adults, 15-29 year olds.
Road insecurity is wreaking havoc in Africa. According to the United Nations, the continent is home to 3% of the world’s car fleet, but 50% of road accidents.
The UN Secretary General António Guterres thus dispatched his special envoy last week to several African capitals to mobilize governments.
Jean Todt, the former boss of the Ferrari stable in Formula 1, said this message to African leaders: “The social and economic consequences of traffic accidents represent a source of destabilization of your country”.
In Africa, road offenses escape any regulations. The obligation to wear helmet, belt of safety, the prohibition of the telephone or even the alcohol behind the wheel is rarely verified.
Motorists arrested in the act can always monetize an offense to escape justice.
