Chief of Staff calls for stronger enforcement of motorcycle safety measures
The Chief of Staff, Dr Julius Debrah, has called for stronger implementation of road safety measures as motorcycle use continues to expand across Ghana and other parts of Africa.
Dr. Julius Debrah, the Chief of Staff, has advocated for more robust enforcement of motorcycle safety measures amid the rising popularity of motorbikes across Ghana and Africa. Addressing the inaugural meeting of the 2026 Safe African Helmets Initiative (SAHI) Summit, the Chief of Staff underscored the significant role motorcycles play as a vital component of Africa's transportation and economic systems, facilitating community connections, livelihoods, and essential mobility for numerous individuals.
However, he stressed that the increasing usage of motorcycles necessitates a heightened dedication to road safety. The Ghanaian Road Traffic (Amendment) Act, 2025, establishes a legal framework for the commercial operation of motorcycles, tricycles, and quadricycles. According to the Chief of Staff, while this legislation marks a crucial advancement, its efficacy hinges on adequate implementation, adherence to safety standards, rider education, diligent enforcement, and continuous public awareness.
He highlighted the critical importance of ensuring that motorcycle riders and passengers utilize helmets that offer genuine protection, not just those that merely superficially appear protective. "A helmet must exceed mere appearance. It must conform to the requisite safety criteria, be correctly fitted and worn, and provide authentic safeguarding during an accident," he asserted.
The Chief of Staff further stressed that the wellbeing of motorcycle riders and passengers must remain a top priority in transportation policies and planning. He commended the FIA Foundation, Transaid, the National Road Safety Authority, and other participating entities for convening the summit and fostering a platform to intensify discussions on motorcycle safety across Africa.
The Chief of Staff emphasized that road safety should not be viewed as an afterthought but a fundamental aspect in the planning and management of transportation networks throughout the continent. "Our objective must be clear: every head should possess a safe helmet, every journey should conclude safely, and every life lost is a family left without its member," he concluded.
Written by urgent.news from MyJoyOnline Ghana's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
