Global media and financial analytics conglomerate, Bloomberg LP has organized a capacity building workshop for journalists and other stakeholders on Road safety reporting in the Ashanti Region.
Held on Thursday March 17,2023, the workshop was in collaboration with Building And Raod Research Institute (BRRI), a subsidiary of the Council for Scientific And Industrial Research (CSIR) and the John Hopkins University (JHU), USA.
The event according to the organizers was also to share findings of observing studies carried out under the Bloomberg Project with larger group stakeholders so as to increase visibility of the road safety data and for its effecrive use in the greater Kumasi.
Speaking at the sidelines of the event, Ingineer Francis Afukaar from (CSIR – BRRI) said they aimed at building capacity of journalists on factual road safety reporting thereby supporting policy change, amendments and enforcement of various road traffic regulations to improve safety reduce clashes.
“Beginning 2020,the John Hopkins International Injury Research Unit conducted roadside observation in Kumasi through the Bloomberg Philanthropist Initiative for Global Road Safety which aims to reducing road fatalities”
“Through the findings, some useful data have been gathered which will be very instrumental for the country particularly Kumasi in terms of policy direction”
Mr ‘fukaar disclosed that, the research showed that, only 33 per cent of drivers captured in the Kumasi city were observing speed limits.
He added that 25 per cent of drivers comply to the wearing of seat belts while only 36 per cent of motorcycle riders used helmet the right way.
The findings further revealed that, a total of 160 fatalities, 558 serious injuries and 794 minor injuries were recorded in 2021.
These statistics according to him necessitated a strong move to create a safe, smart, sustainable and resilient modern city.
He added that is one of the ten cities selected to take part in the Bloomberg Initiative on Global Road Safety, partners in the strategy formulation.
Source: Ghana/otecfmghana.com/
