A Comprehensive Road Safety Framework in Ethiopia
Pioneering Road Safety Enhancements
This comprehensive approach to improving road safety in Ethiopia represents a significant step forward in creating safer roads and reducing traffic-related incidents. Through strategic planning, capacity building, and the implementation of advanced road safety measures, Ethiopia is paving the way toward a safer future for all road users. This case exemplifies Sweroad’s commitment to delivering innovative and sustainable solutions to enhance road safety and infrastructure development worldwide.
Challenge
Ethiopia faced a pressing challenge in road safety management due to the absence of a systematic and efficient approach for enhancing road safety across the nation.
Solution
To tackle this challenge, a detailed analysis of Ethiopia’s road safety ecosystem was conducted, focusing on the five United Nations Road Safety Pillars. This encompassed a thorough review of existing road safety data, policies, objectives, stakeholder responsibilities, the Lead Agency’s role, past efforts, and ongoing initiatives to enhance road safety.
Outcomes
The initiative led to several key developments in Ethiopia’s road safety strategy:
- Road Safety Strategy and Action Plan: A strategic roadmap and action plan were developed to guide Ethiopia’s future road safety initiatives.
- Road Safety Audit and Inspection Manual: A comprehensive manual was prepared to standardize road safety audits and inspections throughout the country.
- GIS Crash Database: Implementation of a Geographic Information System (GIS) based crash database to analyze and address road safety issues effectively.
- iRAP Star Rating Application: Over 18,000 km of Ethiopia’s federal paved road network was assessed using the iRAP Star Rating system for safety, which helped in identifying areas needing urgent safety improvements.
- Capacity Building: Extensive training programs were introduced on Road Safety Audit, Road Safety Inspection, the iRAP Star Rating system, Risk Mapping, and Black Spot Management to build local capacities in road safety management.
- Safety Manuals: Development of manuals for traffic signs, markings, and comprehensive road safety management to provide clear guidelines for road safety practices across Ethiopia.
