Dr. Ernest Nsabimana, the Minister of Infrastructure made the revelation while addressing the upper house of parliament on July 25, 2023. He was summoned by the Senate to elaborate on the Rwandan government’s efforts to prevent fatalities and serious injuries among road users.

Various measures have been implemented to prevent and combat road accidents, including the decentralization of vehicle technical inspection services to the public, the installation of speed governors, road surveillance cameras to monitor traffic, detection of drunk drivers, introduction of new road signs, and intensified awareness campaigns regarding traffic accidents.

Despite some progress, Rwanda still recorded more than 9400 accidents across the country last year, resulting in over 700 fatalities and 4000 injuries. From January to April 2023, road accidents claimed the lives of 250 people, with 72 sustaining serious injuries, while 1550 others suffered minor injuries.

The Senate identified several obstacles to preventing and controlling road accidents, including the lack of respect for traffic rules and irresponsible behavior by some drivers. Senator Hadija Ndangiza Murangwa expressed concern over non-compliance with commonly used traffic rules and the prevalence of drunk driving, both of which significantly contribute to accidents. Additionally, she highlighted 298 accident-prone areas that still require attention, along with the continuous use of dilapidated vehicles on the roads.

Minister Nsabimana acknowledged that road accidents are caused by a combination of outdated infrastructure and the behavior of road users. He emphasized the importance of education and awareness campaigns to promote road safety.

Dr. Nsabimana also revealed that a study conducted in January 2023 by Rwanda Transport Development Agency (RTDA) and Rwanda National Police underlined the need for Rwf102 billion to effectively address all identified road safety issues.

Dr. Ernest Nsabimana, the Minister of Infrastructure appearing before the Upper House of Parliament.

The Senate identified several obstacles to preventing and controlling road accidents, including the lack of respect for traffic rules and irresponsible behavior by some drivers.