In a concerted effort to priorities road safety as a pivotal societal concern, the Ministry of Home Affairs, in collaboration with the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Guyana National Road Safety Council (GNRSC) on November 8, 2023, launched National Road Safety Month under the theme “Road Safety is Not a Slogan. It is a way of life. Respect the Road”, which took place in Regional Police Division #2 at the Anna Regina Car Park, Essequibo Coast, marking the commencement of a series of impactful activities and campaigns.

The event was inaugurated with a vibrant road parade, involving diverse participation from the Joint Services, Ministry of Health representatives, Neighbourhood Police, Community Policing Group (CPG), Station Management Committee (SMC), members of the National Road Safety Council (NRSC), the Essequibo Road Safety Council (ERSC), children from Charity, CV Nunes, Anna Regina and Essequibo Technical Institute (ETI).

Engaging performances such as dances and heartfelt poems were presented by schoolchildren, highlighting the far-reaching impacts of road fatalities on our communities and families.

Mr. Earl Lambert, Chairman of the Guyana National Road Safety Council, noted that the careless use of the roadways has seemed to become the norm, which has resulted in the rise of fatalities.

Mr. Lambert further highlighted the importance of not just vocalising safety messages but actively embodying and practicing them daily. “We are glad that the message is there, but we would like the message to be observed”, Mr. Lambert said.

During his brief remarks, Traffic Chief Senior Superintendent Mahendra Singh advocated for an extensive outreach strategy, calling for engagements in schools, bars, and car parks to foster awareness and education.

Mr. Singh also emphasised the crucial role of enforcement in maintaining the integrity of the road safety process, highlighting the need for the elimination of any complacency or compromise in the implementation of regulations.

Minister of Home Affairs Hon. Robeson Benn, during his featured address, delivered an impassioned address highlighting that collective responsibility lies not only within government initiatives but also requires active involvement from businesses and citizens alike in ensuring road safety. He emphasised that road safety transcends individual concerns and is, indeed, everybody’s business.

Minister Benn alluded to the fact that road safety extends beyond the transport sector, permeating public health, societal well-being, and economic stability.

“The statistics reveal that a significant portion of accidents, nearly 80%, are linked to speeding. However, this term encompasses various aspects beyond merely accelerating, such as alcohol misuse, distracted driving due to texting, smoking, or even listening to loud music while in public transport,” Minister Benn posited.

Moreover, he noted that “we must pivot our focus on changing the behaviour of our youth beyond just delivering messages. The concern lies in how we can effectively shift their mindset and habits.”

Reflecting on the distribution of safety helmets, particularly to motorcyclists, as a preventative measure, Minister Benn highlighted the necessity of reinforcing responsible behaviours, especially among the younger demographic, stressing the significance of driving within the confines of road rules and ensuring proper training.

“If we bring them in and they don’t have a helmet, I’m prepared to give them the help…they should not be left to leave the police station without a helmet, whether we give them one free or their parent or guardian brings a helmet for them”, Minister Benn alluded.

Minister Benn also echoed the sentiments of the Chairman of the GNRSC on the importance of extending support to victims and their families.

“We need to do more in respect of victim support in terms of recognizing their hurt and distress and their inability to maintain their family”, Minister Benn asserted.

Every lost life and every individual injured due to road accidents is one too many. Therefore, it’s imperative to unite our efforts to make substantive progress towards safer road practices.

The launch of National Road Safety Month is a firm step towards instigating behavioural changes, fostering responsibility, and ultimately ensuring safer roads for all. This collective endeavour emphasises the dire need for a cultural shift in attitudes towards road usage and highlights the importance of collaborative action from all sectors of society.