Accra: On 14th February, as many Ghanaians woke up to celebrate the day set aside for loved ones, it would, unfortunately, be the last day on earth for some Ghanaians. There was tragic news; a fuel tanker exploded, engulfed several vehicles within a few metres, and burned certain individuals alive.
According to Ghana Web, death by burning is considered 'one of the most painful and even torturous ways to die.' The question remains: why have road accidents increased in the last few years, even with the explosion of technology? The National Road Safety Authority reported that 2,949 persons died due to road crashes in 2025 - the highest recorded in 35 years.
The rise in road accidents is believed to be partly due to the government's lack of stringent measures to prevent such occurrences. Human actions, especially those endangering lives, can be controlled through appropriate measures. The government's failure to enforce strict road safety regulations contributes significantly to these tragedies.
One suggested measure is the enforcement of regular roadworthiness checks for vehicles, especially for long-haulage and heavy-duty ones. Another is the establishment of speed cameras to deter overspeeding-a leading cause of road accidents in Ghana. The experience of countries like the United Kingdom shows that traffic enforcement cameras can effectively reduce speeding.
Furthermore, the condition of streetlights remains inadequate. The Accra Mayor, Linda Ocloo, had promised to fix the streetlights, especially along major roads, but large parts of Accra remain underilluminated. The absence of proper lighting contributes to road accidents.
The driving test system in Ghana also requires significant improvement. Current tests are inadequate and do not sufficiently assess a driver's ability to respond to road hazards. Compared to more rigorous systems like that in the UK, Ghana's driving tests need a complete overhaul to ensure drivers are competent.
There is also a need to close avenues for obtaining driver's licenses through unapproved means, with culprits facing prosecution. Public education on road safety and vehicle operation, including the correct use of vehicle headlights, is crucial and should be conducted in all languages spoken in Ghana.
Technology offers solutions that can not only improve road safety but also generate revenue and create employment opportunities. Ghana must embrace these advancements to prevent further loss of life on its roads.