By Kimberly Giddings | November 10, 2024
The Ministry of Home Affairs launched National Road Safety Month 2024 at the Leonora Track and Field facility on the West Coast of Demerara, highlighting the urgent need to reduce road fatalities across Guyana.
Between 2014 and November 2, 2024, Guyana recorded 1,212 fatal accidents, resulting in 1,370 deaths.
Males accounted for 83% (1,135) of these fatalities, significantly outnumbering female deaths at 17% (234).
Individuals aged 25 to 42 were identified as the most vulnerable group, recording the highest number of fatalities.
Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn, emphasized the preventable nature of most road accidents and stressed the importance of achieving the target of reducing annual road deaths to 53 by 2030.
The current year has seen 108 road deaths to date.
The Minister also called on school children to make responsible choices as pedestrians and urged all citizens to reject reckless behavior, fostering a culture of respect and responsibility on the nation’s roads.
This year’s observance of National Road Safety Month involves a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Guyana Police Force, the National Road Safety Council, and other stakeholders.
The campaign aims to increase public awareness, promote safe driving practices, and reduce road accidents.
The Ministry continues to invest in initiatives to curb road fatalities, reinforcing its commitment to building a safer and more peaceful Guyana.