The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Gambia National Youth Parliament (NYP) and the National Youth Commission of the Gambia Red Cross Society (GRCS) to harmonise strategies in scaling down unbearable figures of road accidents is a step in the right direction.
This is evidence of genuine collaboration, since in recent times the issue of road accidents has become a very serious matter.
Our commendation goes to the NYP and the Red Cross for the bold initiative they have taken.
As alluded to by the officials of these two organisations, at the signing ceremony, some of these accidents could have been prevented if the necessary measures were put in place.
We, therefore, urge the two parties to measure up to expectations so as to ensure a successful implementation of the memorandum.
The need for both drivers and pedestrians and other road users to change their attitude is also critical, as observers believe that the behaviour of road users is one of the main causes of road crashes and road crash injury and death.
Traffic regulations should be fully implemented for the safety of all road users.
It is hoped that with this kind of partnership more public awareness would be created on the need to make our roads safer for all.
The devastating effects of road accidents are many, and include loss of lives, injuries and damage to properties, among others.
To reduce the number of tragic accidents on our roads, all hands must be on deck.
As part of efforts to curtail the incidence of road accidents, people should desist from using mobile phones while driving, as well as avoid over-speeding.
We encourage donor partners like WHO to support this important initiative, putting into consideration the number of deaths and other devastating effects caused by road traffic accidents.
