By Kadiatu A Turay
In a commendable effort to enhance road safety, the Drive Safe Alliance, in collaboration with the Road Safety Committee, recently repainted several zebra crossings in Bo City. The initiative aims to ensure pedestrian safety and reduce the alarming rate of road traffic accidents.
The repainted zebra crossings are strategically located in high traffic areas, including schools, hospitals, and marketplaces. According to Mr. Mohamed Kamara, Chairman of the Road Safety Committee, “Pedestrian safety has been a growing concern in Bo. This project is a step in the right direction to create awareness and foster a culture of road safety among drivers and pedestrians alike.”
The initiative was carried out over the past week and officially concluded with a community sensitization campaigns targeting road users. Representatives from the Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority (SLRSA), local council members, and community leaders joined hands to educate drivers about the importance of respecting zebra crossings. “It’s not just about repainting; it’s about ensuring drivers understand their responsibility to stop for pedestrians,” remarked SLRSA Regional Manager, Mrs. Fatmata Bangura.
Market women and schoolchildren were among the most enthusiastic beneficiaries of the project. Mrs. Mariatu Conteh, a vendor at Bo Central Market, expressed her gratitude: “This will help us cross the roads more safely, especially during busy hours. We’ve seen too many accidents here, and this gives us hope for change.”
The local council played a crucial role in facilitating the project. Councilor Ibrahim Jalloh emphasized the importance of partnerships in addressing road safety challenges: “Collaborations like this prove that when we come together as stakeholders, we can achieve great things for our community.”
To further reinforce the initiative, the Traffic Division of the Sierra Leone Police deployed officers to monitor compliance and enforce traffic rules at the newly repainted crossings. Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Alice Koroma stated, “Our presence will serve as a reminder to drivers that pedestrian safety is paramount.”
As the zebra crossings now stand out boldly, the hope is that both drivers and pedestrians will exercise greater caution. The Drive Safe Alliance plans to extend similar projects to other regions, ensuring safer roads nationwide.
With a united front from various stakeholders, the people of Bo City look forward to a safer and more pedestrian friendly environment.