The Africa Transport Policy Program (SSATP), in partnership with the African Union Commission (AUC) and the World Health Organization (WHO), released the Africa Status Report on Road Safety 2025 in February 2025.
This publication presents an updated analysis of road safety performance across African countries, based on data from the WHO Global Status Report on Road Safety 2023 and aligned with the objectives of the Second Decade of Action for Road Safety (2021–2030).
Download the report here
Africa has the highest road traffic fatality rate globally, despite representing only 2% of the world’s vehicles. Road crashes are a leading cause of death and disability on the continent, disproportionately affecting vulnerable road users. The 2025 Status Report provides comparative data and institutional assessments that support the design and implementation of evidence-based policies.
Main findings
- An estimated 650 people die every day from road traffic crashes in Africa.
- Pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists represent close to 50% of total fatalities.
- The estimated economic loss from road crashes reaches up to 3% of GDP in most African countries.
- The average road traffic death rate in the region remains nearly three times higher than in high-income countries.
Institutional assessment
The report evaluates national frameworks for road safety governance. It includes assessments of:
- Presence and performance of lead road safety agencies.
- Integration of road safety in national transport and health strategies.
- Budget allocation and coordination mechanisms.
- Availability and quality of data collection and reporting systems.
Legislative and policy environment
The report analyzes the status of legislation and enforcement in key areas:
- Speed limits, drink-driving, seatbelt use, helmet requirements, and child restraints.
- Regulation of vehicle standards and import controls.
- Provision for road safety audits and safer infrastructure design.
- Existence and capacity of post-crash care systems.
Recommendations
The report proposes priority actions to improve outcomes and strengthen road safety systems, including:
- Establishing or strengthening national road safety authorities with clear mandates and resources.
- Enhancing data collection, analysis, and dissemination to inform policymaking.
- Ensuring legislative frameworks are aligned with international best practices.
- Investing in safe infrastructure for all road users, especially the most vulnerable.
The report is a tool for governments, regional bodies, and development partners to monitor progress, identify challenges, and coordinate efforts under a common strategic framework.
Reference: https://www.ssatp.org/publication/africa-status-report-road-safety-2025