Freetown 31st March, 2026– Sierra Leone has officially ratified the African Road Safety Charter, becoming the 14th country to deposit its instrument of ratification and helping trigger the Charter’s entry into force earlier this month.
The milestone, led by Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority (SLRSA) Executive Director James Bagie Bio with support from the Ministry of Transport and Aviation, marks a bold step in the nation’s campaign to cut road traffic deaths by half by 2030.
The Charter sets out ambitious goals for member states, including stronger legislation, safer infrastructure, improved vehicle standards, better accident data collection, and enhanced emergency response systems.
In line with these objectives, Sierra Leone has already rolled out reforms such as decentralizing licensing services nationwide, introducing digital platforms for accessibility, and forging partnerships with key institutions. These include the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) for driver data synchronization, the Sierra Leone Standards Bureau for quality control of vehicle parts, and the National Emergency Medical Service (NEMS) to strengthen post-crash care.
“SLRSA stands ready and willing to implement the Charter by popularising it and domesticating its provisions,” said James B. Bio. “Sierra Leone is proud to have taken steps that helped trigger the entry into force of the Charter. This milestone in road safety governance underscores the positive strides by President Bio in restoring Sierra Leone’s reputation as a major player in Africa and on the global stage.”
With the Charter now in force, Sierra Leone is positioning itself as a leader in road safety reform, aligning national initiatives with continental ambitions for safer roads, safer vehicles, and safer road users.
