Statistics from the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) reveal a troubling trend—149 children and teenagers below 18 lost their lives in road accidents during the first half of 2024.

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Although the total number of road crashes has seen a slight decline, the rising death toll has sparked concerns among road safety advocates and policymakers.

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Between January and June 2024, Ghana recorded 6,653 road accidents involving 11,283 vehicles, leading to 8,798 casualties. Of these, 1,237 individuals died, while 7,561 suffered various degrees of injuries, according to NRSA data.

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While pedestrian knockdowns saw a marginal decrease, road accident fatalities increased by 13% compared to the same period in 2023, highlighting the ongoing risks on Ghana’s roads.

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"A summary of the provisional national traffic crash and casualty statistics indicates that a total of 6,653 road traffic crashes were reported from January to June 2024. These crashes involved 11,283 vehicles of all categories (Private, Commercial, Motorbikes/Cycles, etc.), and 8,798 casualties (1,237 fatalities/deaths and 7,561 injuries) Knockdowns decreased by 4%, 4.5%, 3.8% and 1% respectively from January to June 2024 whilst persons killed increased by 13% when compared to the same period of 2023.

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"In June 21 (12%) persons killed were below 18 years whilst 150 (88%) were reported to have been adults (above) 18 years. Likewise, from January to June, 149 (12%) persons killed were below the age of 18 years whilst 1088 (88%) were reported to have been adults (above 18 years)", the report indicated.

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The World Health Organization (WHO) identifies road traffic accidents as a major cause of death among children and young adults aged 5–29 years.

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The increasing number of tragic fatalities has intensified calls for immediate road safety measures.

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Advocates are pushing for stricter enforcement of speed restrictions, especially around schools and residential areas, along with the introduction of pedestrian crossings and improved road signage.

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Additionally, public awareness initiatives targeting both drivers and pedestrians have been recognized as crucial in curbing road-related deaths.

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The Paediatric Society of Ghana (PSG) has also called on stakeholders to reassess the country’s transport system to better protect children.

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According to the PSG, children’s cognitive development and small stature make them particularly vulnerable to road accidents, necessitating a thorough evaluation of traffic management policies to enhance their safety.

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They stress that reckless driving, overspeeding, inadequate pedestrian facilities, and limited public awareness remain key contributors to road crashes and should shape future policy and infrastructure improvements.

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Parents and guardians are urged to educate their children on road safety, emphasizing the importance of using designated pedestrian crossings and staying alert in high-traffic areas.

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Ultimately, the rising death toll serves as a stark reminder that road safety requires a collective effort from authorities, motorists, and pedestrians alike.

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