Rwanda National Police

The Rwanda National Police annual traffic month awareness exercise will be flagged off today in a bid to further sensitize road users on road safety standards.

The awareness exercise will be conducted across the country under the theme “Respect Traffic Rule: Save Lives”.

“The main objective of the 'Traffic Month Campaign' is to enhance the knowledge of road users in traffic rules and regulations with a view to prevent accidents and dangers of violation of traffic rules," Commissioner of Police (CP) George Rumanzi, Commissioner for Traffic and Road Safety department at RNP, said.

"It will involve transport associations, drivers, community leaders and insurers among other stakeholders,” he added.

According to CP Rumanzi, the campaign will sensitize the public to become responsible road users, educate pedestrians on traffic rules and regulations and it will be enhanced by media programs and community policing activities.

“During the campaign, special attention shall be given to school children who will be educated and given road safety tips,” he said.

RNP will be joined by government officials, development and policing partners, in this annual activity meant to prevent road traffic accidents.

"During the month-long campaign, Police will focus on informing the public to not drink and drive, respect speed limits, not to use telephone while driving, respecting other road user’s rights, use of seat belts and helmets, not to overload, and not mix passengers with luggage and commercial goods among others."

Over the past six months, there has been a slight increase of fatal accidents in different parts of the country resulting in loss of lives and property. 

From January up to June 2015, over 200 people died and over 300 were seriously injured, according to police statistics.

In general, 34% of the victims were drivers and passengers, 30% pedestrians while motorcyclists and cyclists were 23% and 13% respectively.

Majority accidents were due to over speeding, reckless driving, and using telephones while driving among others

"This situation caused the loss of lives, cost the government and families in terms of medical treatment and property. Hence, it is a threat to public security which calls for an urgent national response to reverse the trend, and this campaign is among those initiatives to further improve on road security," CP Rumanzi said.